Years in Review. Los Angeles County John L. Scott, Sheriff

Years in Review 2013 | 2014 Creating a Foundation for the Future Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department ® John L. Scott, Sheriff 2013 Dual Track...
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Years in Review

2013 | 2014

Creating a Foundation for the Future Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department ®

John L. Scott, Sheriff

2013 Dual Track

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aDminisTraTive anD Training Division • Strategic Acquisitions Unit counTywiDe services Division • K9 Detail courT services Division • A Year of Change cusToDy services Division general PoPulaTion • North County Correctional Facility Overview cusToDy services Division sPecializeD Programs • Medical Services Bureau DeTecTive Division • Fraud and Cyber Crimes Bureau HomelanD securiTy Division • Emergency Operations Bureau inTernal invesTigaTions Division

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PaTrol oPeraTions central Patrol Division • South LA Station Partnering with the Community east Patrol Division • Solutions Program north Patrol Division • Lancaster - Palmdale Community Advisory Committees south Patrol Division • Cerritos Station Community Outreach TecHnical services Division • Three Dimensional (3D) Scanning Technology Provides Unique Documentation of Crime Scenes valor awarDs ceremony 2013 DeParTmenT BuDgeT for fiscal year 2013-2014 BuDgeTeD PosiTions DeParTmenT Personnel sTrengTH DeParTmenT ParT i crime acTiviTy summary

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Published by Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department 211 West Temple Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90012 For additional information, please contact Sheriff’s Information Bureau at [email protected] or visit www.lasd.org.

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2014 wHaT’s new in 2014

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message from sHeriff JoHn l. scoTT • An Interim Change of Leadership Biscailuz Training cenTer reoPens in 2014

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a TriP Back in Time THrougH THe Hall of JusTice

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Hall of JusTice reDeDicaTion 54 • Sheriff Scott, D.A. Jackie Lacey Rededicate Hall of Justice in Style at Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony 56 cusToDy services Division general PoPulaTion • Population Management Bureau (PMB) eXecuTive offices • A Better Way to do Business has Positive IMPAAC PaTrol oPeraTions central Patrol Division • Building Relationships, Lower Crime Rates Spotlight Compton Station in 2014

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east Patrol Division • Altadena Station Continues Crime Reduction Success in 2014

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• Multi-Jurisdictional Emergency Response Training north Patrol Division • Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station

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• Palmdale Station Reduces Crime by Hometown Deputies; Reaching Out to Those in Need

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south Patrol Division • Carson Station Celebrates 40 Years • Lomita Station Detectives Bust Sophisticated Identity Theft Ring

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• Pico Rivera “PRIDE” Program TransiT Policing Division • 2014 sees the Establishment of the Transit Policing Division

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valor awarDs ceremony 2014 wHo we are... lasD PaTrol oPeraTions welcome To our new sHeriff • Biography

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Dual Track career Path for Deputies

The overarching goals of the Dual Track are to enhance employee morale, the develop a greater cadre of custody subject matter experts, increase supervisory experience, reduce length of time for deputies to transfer to Field Operations, and the ability to maintain the Department’s deployment flexibility. The Dual Track will also advance the Sheriff’s mission of making our correctional facilities a safe and secure learning environment while employing “Constitutional Jailing,” “Procedural Justice” and “Education-Based Incarceration.” The Dual Track Career Path will improve stability and supervisorial tenure in the correction environment. Personnel who choose to work in the correctional environment will have a sense of pride, investment, and be inspired to affect positive change. As a result, a respect-based learning and working environment will be created for personnel and inmates in the county’s

It is projected that Custody Division will eventually become staffed by deputies invested in pursuing careers within the correctional community. Personnel Administration Bureau must then focus on recruiting applicants who are interested in a Field Operations career. Assuming the Department’s general budget remains stable, under the Dual Track, deputies who desire to transfer to Field Operations will experience a drastic reduction in time spent at their first assignment in custody or quite possibly, must be prepared to transfer directly to Field Operations following successful completion of their academy training. There will be no impact to training, regardless of assignment in Custody Division or Field Operations. However, the north county area may have difficulty maintaining their sworn personnel staffing model, which could require an increase in the number of North County Academy classes. The Sergeant Supervisory School will remain unchanged, newly-promoted custody sergeants will attend a 40-hour Custody Division orientation and patrol sergeants will continue to attend Field Incident Command School.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

The Dual Track Career Path was developed to enhance continuity, stability, and accountability in the correctional system and Field Operations related functions. As the most significant personnel staffing revision in the modern history of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the Dual Track provides a career path for all sworn personnel who choose to remain and promote within their career path of choice: Custody Division, Field Operations or both, up to the rank of Division Chief.

correctional community. The custody promotional path will provide supervisors the incentive to remain in custody, hone their expertise, and ensure stability and accountability. Additionally, to provide varied custody career opportunities, non-coveted, specialized deputy positions within Custody Division will have a mandatory three-year rotation. This will afford deputies greater job knowledge, experience, and expertise. Deviations from the mandatory three-year rotation can be made at the discretion of the Division Chief or higher level executive.

Dual Track

As the leader of one of the finest law enforcement organizations in the nation, Sheriff John Scott has endeavored to constantly evolve the Department to keep pace with society, and to enhance public trust and support in both the community and our custodial facilities. During the Department’s regular reassessment, he recognized that the necessity to enrich the career opportunities for custody deputies, while at the same time providing a higher degree of professional stability for our correctional facilities, was long overdue.

All Deputy Sheriff Trainee applicants who successfully complete the Sheriff’s Academy will become full sworn peace officers, pursuant to 830.1(a) P.C., thereby maintaining the Department’s deployment flexibility for federal, state, or county emergencies.

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strategic acquisitions unit administrative and Training Division

Patrol Boat

full Body scanner

industrial welders

cargo Trucks

The strategies adopted by the unit included: • Consolidation of purchasing power and collaboration with other county departments or outside agencies • Objectivity in product selection and focusing on Department needs • Encouraging competitive pricing and minimizing intermediaries whenever possible • Improving vendor accountability

The Strategic Acquisitions Unit also acquired vehicles, equipment and numerous other commodities at no cost to the county, via a federal excess property program for designated law enforcement agencies. Pursuant to the creation of this unit, the Department had acquired over $4 million in commodities through this program over the past two years. The Strategic Acquisitions Unit is staffed by a lieutenant, sergeant, three deputies and three professional staff members.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

As an example, the Department was in the midst of upgrading duty weapons to the Smith & Wesson, M&P handgun with Surefire weapon light. This upgrade was, in part, made possible due to the substantial negotiated savings of the weapons systems by the Strategic Acquisitions Unit. The negotiated savings equated to $5.6 million. Additionally, this new business model assisted Custody Division in negotiating an approximate $4.4 million in savings in the acquisition of body scanner technology. Subsequently, units were able to utilize monies from negotiated savings to acquire needed equipment and supplies previously not attainable due to budget constraints. This new business model plays an important role in increasing efficiency and effectiveness in cost savings.

aDminisTraTive anD Training Division

In response to the fiscal challenges faced in the recent budget crisis, an innovative new business model was developed at the Administrative and Training Division. The Strategic Acquisitions Unit (SAU) was formed to develop and promote a new procurement concept of consolidating the purchasing powers of various County Departments, to obtain more competitive pricing from vendors and increase vendor accountability. The Strategic Acquisitions Unit’s concept builds on a new business model developed, in part, out of a graduate program at the School of Public Policy at the University of Southern California and has helped the Department achieve a savings of over $16 million within a period of two years.

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k-9 DeTail countywide services Division

Tula and her handler Deputy Guillermo Loza, along with Ruby, another dog, and her handler Deputy Daniel Cassese, are part of Countywide Services Division’s K-9 Detail, a new Sheriff’s unit that started operating in July. Their mission: keeping watch over County facilities, parks and events. Tula and Ruby are explosives dogs, trained to find various bomb materials that could be used in an attack. They joined the Department after serving with the United States Marines in Afghanistan. There, Tula and Ruby were experts in locating roadside bombs known as IEDs, or Improvised Explosive Devices. IEDs are the leading cause of fatalities for the United States and its allies, responsible for the deaths of over 3,275 soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq. “They uncovered more than 40 IEDs each,” said Sergeant Mark Jennings, who heads the new detail, which also includes his narcotics-sniffing dog, Chip. “They can’t give me a number of lives these dogs saved, but it’s in the hundreds.” Sergeant Jennings, a former Marine, scored the sought-after hero dogs last fall in North Carolina, where representatives from dozens of law enforcement agencies vied for 50 of the returning military canines. As Tula and Ruby went through their paces in front of the law enforcement crowd, Jennings was impressed—and he wasn’t alone. “Just about

The dogs live with the deputies and the pairs develop a close bond, which is essential to their performance. Continued training is part of the job description and up to three hours of each shift is devoted to it. When the day is done, Tula and Ruby live the good life of any other well-cared-for pet in Southern California. Tula likes running on the beach and investigating every corner of Deputy Loza’s house, while 5-year-old Ruby will “play with a tennis ball until she passes out” according to Deputy Cassese. Sergeant Mark Jennings said the program is a great financial deal for the county. Bomb-sniffing dogs are bred specifically for the task and undergo months of expert training. All told, each would normally cost upwards of $50,000. As more return from the war, Sergeant Jennings hopes to expand the detail to include up to five more K-9 teams. Tula and Ruby still wear military dog tags in honor of their service abroad. When they retire from the Sheriff’s Department, Deputies Loza and Cassese will have the first option to adopt. “I’ll get to keep Tula,” said Deputy Loza, smiling broadly. “And I will, of course. She’s the best partner ever.”

2013/2014 Period of Transition

Just last year, one of Countywide Services Division’s newest members, Tula, was in Afghanistan, sniffing out buried explosives and saving lives and limbs in the war zone. Now, her beat is Los Angeles County where, on a recent afternoon, she put her exceptional sniffing abilities to work on a random stroller she encountered in Grand Park. The youthful, black Labrador retriever has traded in her military handler for a new partner on the home front, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy Guillermo Loza.

everyone wanted Tula and the other half wanted Ruby,” he said. “We had to do a drawing and we got lucky.” Three-year-old Tula and 6’4” Deputy Loza made a striking duo as they made the rounds in Grand Park recently. “I like your dog,” shouted a young girl while skipping toward the park’s splash fountain. “Aww, what’s her name?” asked a woman dressed in business attire, while a tourist snapped a photo. They’re getting used to attention from the public. On cue, Tula darted off and investigated bushes, trash cans, bags and anywhere else a bomb might be hidden. Finding nothing, she returned for a bit of affection and a chance to play with her favorite chew toy.

counTywiDe services Division

The Dogs of war come Home

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a year of change court services Division

Adding to the changes within the Division, a new Long Beach Courthouse was dedicated and named after former Governor George Deukmejian. Through the years, the older building had failed to keep up with the increased demands placed on it by its many visitors, which numbered in excess of 5,000 per day. The larger dimensions and modern design of the new courthouse, which opened on September 9, 2013, enabled it to cope with the high volume of court patrons and staff. Measuring over 531,000 square feet, the new courthouse is well over 50% larger than the older building and will be home to 31 courtrooms, as well as retail space, which will include a food court.

Finally, Court Services Division added another bureau to its command, the Civil Management Bureau (CMB). Staffed by nearly 350 personnel who work out of 20 branch offices in courthouses throughout the County, CMB provides the following services within the County: Serving Civil Process, Court Ordered Evictions, Property Seizures and Sales, Garnishments, Trust Fund Administration, and serving Protective Orders.

At a total construction cost of $340 million, the new George Deukmejian Courthouse is not only an eye-catching architectural achievement, but a practical investment in the future that will help ease the burden of a court system facing ever-increasing demands. Continuing with the “Year of Change,” Court Services Transportation Bureau (CST) was the recipient of a grant

State law sets fees for most of the above civil-enforcement services. The Bureau generates over $16 million per year in revenue. However, the Bureau is more than a fee-for-service business. Effective civil enforcement helps create a secure and reliable economic climate, and this in turn generates the equitable prosperity needed to maintain public confidence in our diverse community. Court Services Division has met the challenges and changes for 2013, and the personnel look forward to what 2014 will bring!

2013/2014 Period of Transition

award from the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) through the Carl Moyer Program. The grant award of $2,567,422, partially funded the replacement of 13 high-pollution inmate transportation buses. All of the new buses combined produce less than half of the nitrous oxide and particulate emissions of one of the bureau’s old buses. The new buses come equipped with a separate rear tank, which, when processed through the exhaust system, improves fuel mileage, reduces nitrogen oxide and particulate matter emissions; thus improving air quality throughout the County and environment.

courT services Division

Court Services Division was most impacted in 2013 by the closing of six Los Angeles Superior Courthouses across the County of Los Angeles, in a court consolidation. The consolidation impacted all facets of Division operations. After an analysis period, Court Services Division realigned courthouse responsibilities within the bureaus to better manage the volume increase of public visitors and inmates into fewer courthouse locations around the County. Prior to the closures, a job fair occurred to relocate sworn and non-sworn personnel. In all, 65 Department personnel were forced to change work assignments.

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north northcounty countycorrectional correctionalfacility facilityoverview overview custody services Division general Population

The implementation of inmate programs designed to equip inmates with the skills necessary to successfully transition back into society began when NCCF opened 24 years ago. These programs expanded through the establishment of the Education Based Incarceration Bureau (EBI), which contracts with program providers such as Five Keys Charter School and LA Works. Five Keys Charter School provides intensive, one-month semester courses to inmates who are interested in earning a high school diploma. Inmates housed at the North County Correctional Facility who opted into this program and completed it were awarded their diplomas during two graduation ceremonies in June and December of 2013.

Vocational training is also provided by LA Works in areas such as culinary food preparation and art. Culinary food preparation training is received inside the NCCF kitchen where meals are prepared for inmates housed at NCCF and elsewhere on the Pitchess Detention Center. A full-service Officers Dining Room provides further training in meal preparation and service. Art training includes developing skills at creating murals as demonstrated by the many different mural applications located throughout the North County Correctional Facility. LA Works also provides programs to enhance the essential life skills necessary for a positive, productive life. The Maximizing Education Reaching Individual Transformation (MERIT) Program is one such program that focuses on anger management, drug rehabilitation and how to complete job applications and resumes. Inmates who successfully completed programs such as MERIT became eligible to participate in the first “Returning Hearts Celebration” that took place at NCCF on October 11, 2013. The Returning Hearts Celebration reunited incarcerated dads with their children during a day of games and activities. Approximately 21 program inmates and 42 children attended the celebration where they were chaperoned at all times by 48 family assistants (civilian volunteers).

2013/2014 Period of Transition

NCCF has been considered a “state-of-the-art” jail with its ability to isolate any portion of the complex remotely from a central location should the need arise. Its physical design of three or four dorms managed by a single-staff station contributes to one of the lowest cost-per-inmate ratios in the division. Yet despite its economy of operation, NCCF is equipped to house all security levels up to and including the K-10 inmates who were added in 2013. NCCF personnel continually reassess operational protocols as ongoing adjustments are made to the size and makeup of its inmate population based upon the changing needs of the department.

LA Works is an organization that offers vocational training through three major vocational training programs at NCCF: printing, clothing manufacturing and sign production. Inmates earn achievement certificates from vocational instructors while being supervised by sworn and professional staff. Each of these vocational programs provides a substantial cost offset in the operation of this facility, the Sheriff’s Department and other selected Los Angeles County Departments. This “Year in Review 2013” booklet you are reading was produced in the print vocational shop located at NCCF.

cusToDy services Division general PoPulaTion

The North County Correctional Facility (NCCF) was formally dedicated by President George H. W. Bush and Sheriff Sherman Block on March 1, 1990. This campus designed complex on 37 acres provides over 961,000 square feet of space and includes five housing pods built to accommodate 2,064 inmates. Since 1990, this capacity has been adjusted to its current level of 4,294 as the annual number of people remanded to custody within Los Angeles County has increased. In 2013, the average daily inmate population was 3,880.

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medical services Bureau custody services Division specialized Programs

The Tattoo Removal Program is another innovative program that attempts to reduce recidivism by offering inmates the ability to distance themselves from their previous bad choices and gaining a new lease on life. The program started in February of 2012 as a collaborative partnership between Medical Services Bureau and Inmate Services Bureau. The cost of the program is covered by the Inmate Welfare Fund and there are no additional costs to the Department or to the public. The program is overseen by trained medical personnel from Medical Services Bureau. The Jail Health Information System (JHIS) program manages and maintains the electronic medical records of all inmate patients (Power Chart) and is responsible

The Automated Drug Packaging System is a successful program implemented at Medical Services Bureau. This is a high-speed, high-volume system that packages medicine by the inmate’s name, housing location, bed, and dosage time. Medications packaged using this technology ensures patient safety by dispensing the correct drug, dosage, and timeline accuracy. The Pharmacy Services Unit has nine Auto-Med machines that hold 320 different tablets and capsules in drug-specific cassettes. The Department partnered with the University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine’s Emergency Medicine Department and the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services to improve the timely delivery of urgent and emergent care services for the inmates within the Los Angeles County Jail. The program focuses on reducing the transfer of non-emergent cases to the LAC+USC Medical Center and provides quality care for inmates while they are in custody and upon their release. Starting July 29, 2013, the jail’s Urgent Care was staffed with emergency room physicians and physician assistants from the Keck School of Medicine and supported by the Department’s nursing staff. A total of 3,235 patients were treated and evaluated in Urgent Care through December 31, 2013. In October 2013, the Medical Transport Team was established. It used CARPed staff to transport inmate patients from the Pitchess Detention Facilities and Century Regional Detention Facility to the Urgent Care at Twin Towers Correctional Facility. The team of five deputies, accommodated 494 inmates and saved approximately 1,482 man hours.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

On August 6, 2013, Medical Services Bureau received an annual AMD Global Telemedicine Award for Telemedicine Excellence. The bureau was selected for this based on their ability to successfully implement and sustain a program that improved the quality of care for their patients. The goal was to address the costs and security challenges associated with removing patients from the jail setting, while still providing quality healthcare. The use of Telemedicine technology significantly reduced the security risks and costs associated with transporting patients and enabled Medical Services Bureau to efficiently utilize their providers and expand virtual coverage to all clinic areas within the jail facilities.

for developing, building, updating and revising electronic medical forms.

cusToDy services Division sPecializeD Programs

Medical Services Bureau provides health care services for all inmates housed within the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department’s Jail system. Along with physicians and nurses, Medical Services Bureau provides the services of dentists, pharmacists, laboratories, radiology and health information management services. The bureau has become a leader in implementing innovative technology programs such as Telemedicine, the Tattoo Removal Clinic, Jail Health Information System, Automated Drug Packaging and Inmate Care Services Program – Urgent Care.

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fraud and cyber crimes Bureau using Technology to Protect the community • Detective Division

A positive by-product of this collaborative approach is the Department’s partnership with the University of Southern California (USC) and the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). These entities have jointly developed state-of-the-art, cutting edge training programs to assist law enforcement. These classes, presented by USC professors and instructors, with the assistance of personnel from the LAPD and our Department address computer technology, cyber investigative law, cyber investigations and response to cyber crimes. These are USC-certified courses, and upon conclusion, each student is presented with a certificate of completion. Further course development is underway, along with plans to develop a jointly-operated cyber investigations laboratory. Finally, public awareness is a critical element in the effort to prevent crime. The public needs to be made aware of cybercrime and have a basic understanding of how to protect themselves, their families, and their businesses. The Fraud and Cyber Crimes Bureau has personnel readily available to make presentations at events sponsored by cities, private organizations, schools, and businesses.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

The Cyber Investigations Center (CIC) was opened in 2013 to assist in meeting these challenges. This first of its kind, this state-of-the-art facility consolidates the Department’s technology-related investigative efforts and serves as a central point for the coordination of cyber-related crime problems within Los Angeles County. The highly-trained staff works directly with outside personnel from local, state and federal agencies, as well as partners from the business community and academia. They address the wide range of technology issues related to crime. In some cases, such as identity theft or intrusion, where a computer or technology was the direct means of the crime, the CIC is responsible for investigating the matter and bringing the wrongdoer to justice. For less direct activities, they are responsible for providing technical support, such as digital evidence collection or computer-based research, to assist the primary investigator in solving their case.

The CIC provides tools and training for law enforcement personnel to improve their skills and capabilities. It is working hard to provide all of the Department’s detectives and first responders with the knowledge needed to properly handle cyber and technology aspects of their investigations. The Self-Service Preview Kiosk, a new feature for mobile devices and loose media (flashdrives, SD cards, etc.) allows investigative personnel the ability to quickly review evidence on their own and avoid delays related to a full forensic analysis.

DeTecTive Division

Advancements in technology have made us more productive, allowed us greater connectivity and generally improved our lives. The benefits are enormous. Unfortunately, those same things that benefit us can also be used against us when it comes to crime. Cyber crime is the fastest growing problem facing law enforcement; its economic impact surpassing narcotics. It is now the rare instance where a criminal act has failed to touch technology as a tool, platform or evidence. Addressing this massive evolution has been a challenge for all of law enforcement. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is working hard to provide leadership, strategies, and training to directly address this serious problem. The Department’s Fraud and Cyber Crimes Bureau is tasked with this vital duty and, over the past year, has made significant contributions to address these issues.

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emergency operations Bureau Homeland security Division

The SRT’s missions include the entire realm of civil disobedience including: passive resistance, active resistance, confrontation of violent agitator groups, celebratory violence, disentanglement operations, Weapons Mass Destruction mass decontamination operations, jail rioting response and its newest mission, counter-terrorism force protection and vital infrastructure protection. • In July 2013, the SRT was deployed to assist Transit Services Bureau in a national training exercise to test the Force Protection and Vital Infrastructure protection capabilities during a simulated threat to the transit system in Los Angeles. Personnel deployed and conducted screening, baggage search and protective missions along the 20 mile Red Line. • The SRT deployed on the following operations on 2013: Rose Parade - Pasadena Christopher West Parade Zimmerman trial – Crenshaw PAX West Hollywood Halloween Festival - WHD The SRT provided several hundred hours of training to, SRT personnel, all patrol divisions and conducted training for all LA County’s allied agencies civil disobedience trainers during 2013. The Department recognizes the peoples’ right to peaceably assemble; this is guaranteed by the First Amendment of the Constitution. But when a peaceful assembly deteriorates into mob behavior it must be mitigated and order restored. Regardless of the mission, man-made or disaster related, the SRT stands ready to respond to any situation that may occur anywhere within the County of Los Angeles.

The HazMat Detail is assigned to Arson Explosives Detail and the two units often work together on calls. The team handles all criminal and terrorist threats involving CBRN for mutual aid cities in the county of Los Angeles. The team has also been used throughout Southern California and has been sent as far as Utah to assist in investigations. • This year the HazMat Detail was the lead law enforcement agency for CBRN prevention and detection for the Tournament of Roses. • The HazMat Detail participated in the Coastal Trident Exercise off the coast of Ventura. The exercise was conducted three miles off shore and included all members dressed in Level B, PPE (chemical suit and SCBA). • The HazMat Detail conducted CBRN prevention and detection sweeps for Operation Independence. This was a Department wide drill that simulated a threat to the Los Angeles transit system. • The HazMat Detail coordinated maritime Radiation Detection Chokepoints at the Los Angeles and Long Beach harbor complex. • This year Detective Mark Seibel was invited to speak before an international audience at the All Hazard Conference in Dublin, Ireland. He also spoke about the Departments responses at the “CBRN Convergence” in San Diego.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

The Sheriff’s Response Teams (SRT) were formed in 2007 after the widely publicized events of mass civil disobedience on May 1, 2007, in the city of Los Angeles. Calendar year 2013, was a relatively quiet year for civil disorder following the Occupy movement which faded into obscurity in early 2013.

• One special team member is Johnny Ringo. Johnny is the only canine in the country that can detect biological and chemical warfare agents. Johnny was trained in Texas by a federally funded laboratory. He is used much like bomb canine, for protected dignitary sweeps and special event sweeps.

HomelanD securiTy Division

a closer look at the sheriff’s response Team

• Sergeant Mick Kelleher co-authored a grant application which was accepted by the Department of Homeland Security. The grant will bring thirty million dollars to the region for radiation detection and training to the region.

Energy, U.S. Army and the Department of Homeland Security. The truck joins the deputies’ new response trucks, which hold all the necessary personal protection equipment, detection equipment and tools to immediately respond to calls. Two of these trucks contain a state of the art radiation detection system which passively searches for any suspicious radiation signatures and identifies the radioactive isotope. p17

internal investigations Division

The Internal Investigations Division provides a more global, Department-wide perspective. Since its creation, the Division has provided more focused and improved oversight, closer monitoring of investigations, and more thorough adjudication of investigations. These improvements have also been due to a revamp of the Case Review and Executive Risk Review process.

The Internal Investigations Division’s goals are: provide assistance to Divisions in the early stages of the investigation and/or adjudication process; implement “lessons learned” training in order to improve employee performance; implement a Department-wide risk management plan; assist Units in developing quarterly risk management plans; provide a better understanding of the investigative and discipline process; analyze incidents for common themes/trends; and, assess the adequacy of Department policies and procedures. Internal Investigations Division plans to provide “career survival” training to Department employees. The Division also plans to train all managers on how to appropriately adjudicate investigations and to train all executives regarding testifying at the Employee Relations Commission and Civil Service Commission hearings. The Internal Investigations Division strives to ensure Department-wide consistency and fairness in discipline.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

The Citizen’s Commission on Jail Violence recommended the Division include the Internal Affairs Bureau and the Internal Criminal Investigations Bureau. The Advocacy Unit and the Risk Management Bureau were also included in the Division since their functions support and complement the internal investigation process.

Internal Investigations Division personnel are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to critical incidents. Division personnel are subject matter experts who are augmented by three County Counsel attorneys assigned to the Advocacy Unit.

inTernal invesTigaTions Division

The Internal Investigations Division is commanded by Chief Roberta A. Abner, who is assisted by Commander Karyn Mannis. The Division was formed in 2013 as a result of the Citizen’s Commission on Jail Violence recommendation to create a single Division responsible for overseeing internal investigations and whose Chief reports directly to the Sheriff. The Citizen’s Commission on Jail Violence made this recommendation in order to enhance oversight and accountability.

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south la station Partnering with the community Patrol operations • central Patrol Division

It has been seen in cities across America, that a community is destined for collapse without a thriving economy. Knowing this, South Los Angeles Station conducted a pilot outreach to the Food4Less grocery chain. The management of Food4Less was, at first, wary of such an ambitious endeavor. Captain Vera reached out to the community and caused their direct involvement as advisors to Food4Less. By brokering a discussion between Food4Less and members of the community, Food4Less heard directly from the citizens, who were articulate in expressing their ideas for a safe and secure place to shop. Together, a security plan was devised using the input of all involved, along with a promise by South Los Angeles Station to do everything possible to facilitate success.

Suggestions that were adopted included security cameras to capture vehicle license plates at each driveway exit, signage advising patrons of videotaping in progress and a dedicated parking space for law enforcement. Security officers patrol their parking lot with special emphasis on the gas station area. Food4Less signed a standing letter which authorizes deputies to arrest trespassers. An unexpected benefit which came from our working network was the expressed desire of Food4Less to hire from the community. Through our relationship with Food4Less, management became aware of the Station’s Youth Activity League and Explorer programs and viewed the youth in these programs as promising members of the community. Several youths from our station programs have been employed by Food4Less, many of whom had limited opportunities following high school graduation. Additionally, as a compassionate gesture to the community, Food4Less donated 3,000 toys during the South Los Angeles Station Holiday Toy Drive last December. Captain Vera met with Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas and his staff to gain support from County government. Supervisor Ridley-Thomas immediately endorsed the program and encouraged our expansion of efforts with the same vision of attracting more businesses to the community.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

Decades ago, when the homes of this community were built, proud, working-class Americans, many of whom were returning veterans of war, occupied these residences. It was a time of hope, safety and prosperity where businesses thrived. Over time, the scourge of gangs and declining socioeconomic condition drove businesses from the area, never to return.

In January 2014, Food4Less opened a full-service store near Western Avenue and Imperial Highway, complete with an eighteen-pump gas station.

cenTral PaTrol Division

One of the highest mission priorities of the South Los Angeles Sheriff’s Station is to partner with the community as a fellow stakeholder and earn the communities credibility through action. Although the majority of public attention the area receives is for its challenges in combating gangs and economic depression, the inspiring truth about the community lies within its residents who hunger for ways to bring vitality to the area. The personnel of South Los Angeles Station humbly see themselves as the bridge between concept and reality for the sake of those we serve.

The results of this partnership are tangible and one day it will be seen as a corner which was turned toward a better future, facilitated by the working partnership between the community, local businesses, and the dedicated personnel of the South Los Angeles Sheriff’s Station.

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solutions Program Patrol operations • east Patrol Division

The program was launched by a sergeant and a deputy as an education-based diversion program at the Industry Sheriff’s Station. After years of referring parents who were seeking help for their destructive teenager’s behavior, the staff found a solution and offered a combination of parenting and an at-risk teen program to the local community. For 10 weeks, parents and their teenagers attend and participate in life education classes, free of charge. The Solutions program is assisted by certified college students who in turn, receive undergraduate credits for their mentorship and assistance. These mentors help the teens cope with any difficulties they may be experiencing and teach them to overcome obstacles and become productive within their families and the community. After successful completion of the program, the parents and teens are awarded a certificate of completion during a ceremony. The parents attend a parenting class where they are taught “Parent Project,” a certified, court-approved parenting class while the teenagers are taught how to make better life choices. Some of the parenting classes included: • A parent’s formula for success • Understanding our children

The teen classes included: • A mock arrest and booking at the station, including taking a drug urine test • Tour of “Skid Row” in downtown Los Angeles with the Fred Jordan Mission • Tour and interaction with inmates at Men’s Central Jail • Wilderness and team bonding hike • Mortuary tour and writing an obituary letter to their parents Since the inception of the Solutions program, 5 classes have been conducted, benefiting 60 families and 50 teenagers. The teenagers who participated have remained in contact with both their mentors and the involved deputies. Four of them have joined the law enforcement family and enrolled as Sheriff’s Department Explorers. The Solutions Program received the 2013 Centurion Award for Excellence by the Los Angeles County Peace Officers Association. The real reward: Walter and Delores Bezanson adopted Danielle and her brother as both of their biological parents were cocaine addicts. Walter and Delores were in their late 50’s when Danielle was adopted. When Danielle wasn’t habitually running away from home or failing in school, she was verbally and physically abusing her adoptive parents. Walter and Dolores brought a very angry Danielle to the Solutions program.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

The Solutions program aims to demonstrate to at-risk teens that poor life choices can lead to a destructive lifestyle and to provide alternatives to joining gangs, committing crimes, and using drugs and alcohol. The program is open and free to all families with children in grades 6 through 9 who feel they can benefit from the training.

• Developing action plans • The Dynamics of change • Managing conflict in the home

easT PaTrol Division

Solutions is the newest diversion program created by the Industry Sheriff’s Station in partnership with several Los Angeles County universities and colleges to help find “solutions” and strategies for families struggling with teen conflicts and their destructive behaviors.

After graduating from the Solutions program, Danielle excelled and became a productive member of the community. She made the varsity volleyball team at Wilson High School, participated and was certified in the Sheriff’s S.C.U.B.A. program, and became a Deputy Explorer at the Industry Station Explorer’s program.

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lancaster - Palmdale community advisory committees (cac) Patrol operations • north Patrol Division

Palmdale Community Advisory Committees

Lancaster Community Advisory Committees

Training At a minimum, CAC members must complete 24-hours of training, which includes topics such as the organizational structure of the Department, various policies and procedures, the complaint process and the Use of Force policy, among others. Many members of the CAC have also attended or committed to attend the Community Academy. The Community Academy is an 8-10 week course which introduces members of the community to the Department. Classes include lectures from personnel assigned to both Palmdale and Lancaster Stations, and members of several specialized units including Canine Services, Narcotics Bureau, and the Advanced Training Bureau. Class attendees also participate in field trips to a custody facility and the Pitchess Detention Center firearms range. The Community Academy is an excellent method for providing a general Department overview for each CAC member and it covers a multitude of subjects and hands-on demonstrations.

cac’s aT work Lancaster Station’s CAC members have collaborated on several public service announcements, with the assistance of Time Warner Cable, to introduce the CAC concept to their communities and provide useful information regarding department-community interaction. The topics included: “Why it is important to yield to emergency vehicles;” “What to do if you’re stopped by a deputy;” and “Crime prevention methods.” The first of several, Public Service Announcements will be completed in early 2014 to introduce the CAC and their intended functions. At the end of 2013, the Community Advisory Committee for Lancaster Station had hosted three community outreach forums and attended two “National Night Out” events. The Palmdale Community Advisory committee has met on several occasions and assisted in allaying community fears during the on-going investigation of racially hateful flyers in both cities, a student suicide at a local middle school, they quashed rumors following a deputy-involved shooting, helped calm community outrage following the death of a child abuse victim, and provided relevant information during a major fire.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

selecTion A successful CAC must include representatives from a wide range of socio-economic, religious and community groups, and should reflect the unique composition of the host station’s populace. In selecting committee members for Lancaster and Palmdale Stations CAC, special attention was given to include representatives from a wide variety of religious and community-based organizations. Not only were CAC members required to live or work in their respective station areas, they were selected in an effort to provide representation from the various areas within each station’s policing area. Currently, each station’s CAC consist of approximately ten members who represent various communities within a vast policing area encompassing more than 900 square miles. Each community has unique concerns and this is a critical element in the selection process as community knowledge is a vital component to establishing the CAC member’s credibility within their specific community. Each prospective member completed a volunteer application, background check, and LiveScan.

meeTings The CACs meet monthly at the station to discuss the previous month’s events and any critical issues. When necessary, meetings are scheduled more frequently to address specific community concerns. At the direction of the unit commander, additional station or outside unit personnel are frequently on-hand to discuss unique enforcement activities.

norTH PaTrol Division

Recognizing the need to strengthen ties to the community and public trust in the Antelope Valley, Palmdale and Lancaster Stations established Community Advisory Committees (CAC).

The value of an active CAC was demonstrated on several occasions during 2013 and we anticipate that value will grow in the coming years as we strive to improve the trust and relationships between the Antelope Valley Stations and the communities we serve.

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cerritos station community outreach Partnering with the communities we Protect • Patrol operations • south Patrol Division

In 2013, we recognized the need to proactively engage our community in partnership with our station. Our goal is to reach a broad base of residents that reflect the increasing diversity of our city. The benefits of increased citizen participation are twofold; first, it allows residents to play an active role as partners in our law enforcement efforts, with a voice in the direction and mission of our operations. Secondly, it provides the tools and infrastructure to more effectively combat crime. One area of focus was to revitalize our quarterly community safety meetings. Everything about these meetings, including the venue, format, and regular attendees, remained stagnant for several years. We intensified our advertisement efforts, with the goal of attracting community members who had never before attended. In our advertisements, we identified a growing residential burglary problem and promised attendees would receive vital information about how to protect themselves, their families, and their property. In one 2013 community safety meeting involving Korean translation through our reserves and volunteers, we estimated 150 attendees; more than double our previous average. In the next 2013 community safety meeting involving Mandarin Chinese translation through our explorers, reserves and volunteers, the webcast was viewed internationally by over 2000 people. Our primary area of emphasis involved our volunteer and auxiliary groups. Through civic events, social media, and word of mouth, we solicited every member of our community to join our volunteer ranks. In 2013, our

Perhaps our most successful community partnership has been the 2013 establishment of our Clergy Council. Places of worship are commonly the center of a community, and are too often underutilized by law enforcement. Cerritos Sheriff’s Station contacted leaders of every religious congregation within our city, inviting them to join our station family. We had an overwhelmingly positive response to our invitation. Religious leaders of every faith and denomination have committed to serve on our Council. Currently, the seventeen member council meets monthly to discuss community needs, crime trends, and future collaborative projects. Crime trend and crime prevention information is regularly disseminated to each council member’s congregation. Thus, with every new member of our Clergy Council, our ability to reach and engage our community expands exponentially. Council members have already proven their value to police operations. On more than one occasion, Clergy Council members have been called upon to help diffuse a potentially volatile interaction between community members. They have earned the deputies' trust as skilled communicators and negotiators. In our increased exposure to each other, we are developing a greater understanding and appreciation for our respective community roles.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

While there is a strong White, African-American, and Latino presence, Asian-Americans make up the city’s largest group of citizens. Specifically, Filipino, Korean, Indian, and Chinese families account for a significant percentage of city residents.

recruitment efforts yielded significant increases in both our ‘Volunteers on Patrol’ and ‘Explorers’ program. More importantly, our most recent volunteers reflect the increasing diversity of our city and bring additional language skills such as Hindi, Tamil, and Bengali. Our newest “Volunteers on Patrol” are each well-respected business owners and civic leaders within their ethnic community. As they patrol our community in Department vehicles, wearing Department uniforms, their commitment to and support of our station is visually evident.

souTH PaTrol Division

The City of Cerritos began contracting police services with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department in April 1956. Then, the city residents primarily consisted of Dutch dairy farmers. However, in recent years, Cerritos has transformed into one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the United States.

Our recruitment efforts have yielded growing participation for all of our auxiliary volunteer groups. With increased community participation and communication, we have been successful in reducing crime.

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Three Dimensional (3D) scanning Technology Provides unique Documentation of crime scenes Technical services Division

Atop a tripod, the camera first captures a 360-degree image of the location. It then uses the laser scanning feature to project light pulses at objects and elevations, recording their measurements from the camera up to 800 feet away. These measurements make up a “point cloud” which the software uses to render 3D images of the location. The rendition is so detailed that hundreds of measurements are retrievable and the scene can be visualized from any perspective. The images can also be combined together to make a video “fly through,” giving viewers a moving tour of the crime scene. The “fly through” file is sent to detectives who can view the 3D rendition of the scene using their Internet Explorer web browser. Latent Print staff can also drop “hot spot” elements into the rendition, allowing viewers to access more information about a particular area in the scene.

The lab has been using this technology for over five years. The 3D scanning cameras are primarily used in high-profile cases, homicides, and deputy-involved shootings. Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau routinely uses the “fly through” presentations to brief the Sheriff about deputy-involved shooting (DIS) investigations. The instrument does have some limitations in that managing in small spaces can sometimes be challenging. However, the ability to produce 3D scene documentation is a valuable court exhibit tool. Recently, such a rendering was used by the District Attorney’s Office for a special circumstances board presentation to pursue the death penalty on a homicide case. Although the technology is continually advancing, there is case law regarding the admissibility of scanner technology in court proceedings. Since the instrumentation has been used in a wide-variety of surveying applications for many years, the basic technology is not considered new or novel. 3D laser scanning technology is a valuable investigative and documentation tool, and an important resource for providing quality forensic science service to the agencies, departments, and units that the bureau serves.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

The Leica 3D scan station consists of a 3D laser scanner with a high-resolution panoramic camera. The system has all critical components built into the unit, allowing the user to scan a full field of view, capture high-resolution images and video quickly, and then process the data to generate 3D representations of the location.

For example, a “hot spot” on a location of evidence recovery can allow the detective to view a photograph of the weapon recovered from that particular location. Additionally, the software can create a “witness perspective” that will show the scene dynamics from a viewpoint of where the witness claims to have observed it.

TecHnical services Division

On November 1, 2013, a lone gunman shot his way into the Los Angeles International Airport, killing a TSA Officer and wounding two other TSA employees and one passenger. Members of the Latent Prints Section, High-Definition Scan Team, responded to Terminal 3 to assist with the investigation by deploying two Leica 3D laser scanners to document the extensive crime scene.

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valor awarDs ceremony 2013

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valor awards ceremony 2013

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medal of valor

meritorious conduct medal - gold

The Medal of Valor award is the highest honor a member of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department can receive. It is awarded to persons who distinguish themselves by displaying great courage above and beyond the call of duty, in the face of an immediate life-threatening peril, and with full knowledge of the risk involved.

This medal is the second highest award a Department member can receive. It is awarded to persons who place themselves in immediate peril and perform an act of heroism and/or save the life of another person.

2013/2014 Period of Transition valor awarDs ceremony 2013

meritorious conduct medal - silver

lifesaving award

This medal is awarded to persons who, when confronted by circumstances beyond the normal course of their duties, place themselves in potential peril while performing an act of heroism or while saving or attempting to save the life of another.

The Lifesaving Award is presented to employees or reserve members of the Department whose actions result in the saving or preservation of a human life that otherwise would have expired without the employee’s direct involvement.

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2013/2014 Period of Transition valor awarDs ceremony 2013

Deputy armando J. arevalo

Deputy gerardo magos

Deputy grant e. roth

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n the evening of November 16, 2012, Deputies arevalo, magos and roth, assigned to the Operation Safe Streets Bureau, were patrolling the Florence/Firestone area of Los Angeles. Deputy Magos was driving an unmarked Ford Crown Victoria, with Deputies Roth and Arevalo seated in the front and back seats. As they drove westbound on 81st Street, the deputies noticed a group of five to seven male gang members walking near the corner of Parmelee Avenue. The deputies opened their vehicle doors to contact the group and illuminated them with their flashlights. The gang members immediately separated in all directions and effectively surrounded the deputies on three sides. Before the deputies could exit their vehicle, approximately four suspects fired at the deputies from multiple directions. Deputy Magos was struck in the abdomen with a .40-caliber bullet. Deputy Arevalo exited the rear passenger door but was forced to immediately dive back onto the rear seat for cover. He was showered with flying glass and debris caused by multiple bullet strikes to their vehicle. Deputy Roth returned fire at the suspects north of them, while Deputy Magos fired through the windshield at another suspect in front of their vehicle. The situation was rapidly deteriorating around them. The deputies were trapped inside their vehicle and under a barrage of gunfire. Deputy Magos shouted several times that he was hit by gunfire and noticed Deputy Roth was attempting to clear a stovepipe jam from his .45 caliber pistol. Demonstrating extraordinary courage and in an attempt to save all of their lives, Deputy Magos leaned across and over the top of Deputy Roth and fired several rounds at the suspect north of them. This fearless act prevented the assailants from advancing on the vehicle and protected Deputy Roth long enough for him to clear his weapon. Deputy Roth re-engaged the suspects as Deputy Magos turned his attention back to the suspect on the south side of the street. Deputy Roth shouted at Deputy Magos to “floor it” to escape the kill zone. Deputy Magos feared Deputy Arevalo lay wounded or killed in the back seat of the radio car and was going to drive a short but safe distance to check on him. As they sped away, the suspects continued to fire at them, striking the vehicle again multiple times. When they reached the corner of 81st Street and Zamora Avenue, they realized Deputy Arevalo had not been hit. They got out of their vehicle and scanned the area for the suspects. The gang members suddenly charged toward them on foot, and all three deputies fired at the suspects, sending them into hiding once again. At that time Deputy Arevalo’s firearm jammed. Deputy Roth stood guard over the injured Deputy Magos as Deputy Arevalo covered them both, having cleared his weapon. Responding deputies and paramedics arrived, and Magos was transported to a local hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery and survived. A search of the area resulted in the arrest of four suspects and recovery of their handguns. One suspect suffered a grazing wound to his head. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office charged the suspects with attempted murder on a police officer. Throughout the gun battle, these deputies’ actions were selfless and nothing short of heroic. Their combined efforts and will to survive resulted in the preservation of their own lives and the lives of their partners. For their tremendous courage in the face of immediate life-threatening peril, with full knowledge of the risk involved, Deputy Armando Arevalo, Deputy Gerardo Magos and Deputy Grant Roth were awarded the Department’s highest honor, the medal of valor.

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Deputy Plunkett was not armed and did not have the option of stopping the assault with a firearm, nor did he have time to call 911, as the woman would likely have been killed before he could make the call. Knowing that mere seconds could mean the difference between life and death, Deputy Plunkett shouted at the suspect that he was a deputy sheriff and ordered him to stop his attack. The suspect looked at Deputy Plunkett but continued to stab the victim several more times. Disregarding his own safety, Deputy Plunkett approached the suspect and kicked him several times in the head, knocking him to the ground and ending the attack. Deputy Plunkett then restrained the suspect using control holds as the suspect started to resist. A Good Samaritan who had been watching the incident assisted Deputy Plunkett by striking the suspect in the head with a pipe wrench. Another off-duty deputy who recognized Plunkett approached and assisted in restraining the suspect until the arrival of Burbank police officers.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

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n November 21, 2012, Deputy Plunkett, assigned to Crescenta Valley Station, was off-duty and refueling his car at a gas station in the city of Burbank when he saw a man and woman arguing in a nearby parking lot while in the presence of two minor children. When he glanced over at the couple again, he saw the man attacking the female with a large knife. He could also see that the children were attempting to stop the attack, placing themselves in great danger.

valor awarDs ceremony 2013

Deputy Tal Plunkett

The victim involved in this incident suffered over 20 stab wounds and cuts and was transported to a local hospital, where she was expected to make a full recovery. The children were not harmed. For displaying great bravery above and beyond the call of duty and placing himself in an immediate life-threatening situation to save the life of a woman being violently attacked, Deputy Tai Plunkett was awarded the Department’s highest honor, the medal of valor.

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2013/2014 Period of Transition valor awarDs ceremony 2013

reserve Deputy nagapet n. Boyadjian

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n the afternoon of May 29, 2012, reserve Deputy Boyadjian, assigned to the Weapons Training Company, was off-duty and in a jewelry store in Los Angeles when two armed, masked suspects entered the store. One of the suspects grabbed an unarmed security guard who was standing near the entrance, placed him in a rear chokehold, and pushed his handgun into his ribcage. The security officer began to struggle in an attempt to escape the suspect’s grasp. Reserve Deputy Boyadjian saw the commotion and immediately knew an armed robbery was in progress. As the guard and suspect continued to struggle, Reserve Boyadjian sensed the noncompliant guard was on the verge of being shot. Placing his own life at risk, he quickly retrieved his off-duty handgun and advanced on the suspects, who were concentrating their efforts on the struggling guard. He ordered the suspects to stop, but they ignored him. Fearing for the guard’s life, Reserve Deputy Boyadjian fired one round from his handgun into one suspect’s lower back, which was the biggest target that presented itself during the fight. The suspect immediately released his hold on the security guard, ran out the door along with the other suspect, and dropped his gun as he reeled in pain. Reserve Deputy Boyadjian ordered security personnel in the area to handcuff the wounded suspect and monitor the handgun that had been dropped. The second suspect fled in a waiting car driven by a third suspect. LAPD Robbery/Homicide detectives handled this case. It is their belief that had Reserve Boyadjian not intervened, the security guard would likely have been shot and possibly killed. With one suspect in custody, they were able to gather enough information to arrest the other two suspects involved in the crime. For placing himself in immediate life-threatening peril by aggressively defending the life of a man who was engaged in a life and death struggle with two armed and violent suspects, Reserve Deputy Nagapet Boyadjian was awarded the Department’s highest honor, the medal of valor.

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Fearing the victim would drown if she did not act immediately, Deputy Underwood-Nunez, who was 6 months pregnant at the time, immediately ran toward the lake. Fully clothed, she dove into the water and swam toward the victim, only to find that the individual screaming for help was the brother of the actual drowning victim. The true victim, a 17-year-old male, was already fully submerged in approximately 15 feet of water and no longer breathing at the bottom of the lake bed. Placing herself and her unborn child at great risk, Deputy Underwood-Nunez dove to the lake bottom and boldly searched the murky water for the victim. She miraculously located him and began to pull him to the surface but, because he was so heavy, thought she herself might not make it to the surface. Once they surfaced, Deputy Underwood-Nunez realized she would not be able to make it to shore with the victim in tow. A man in a small inflatable boat saw the commotion and assisted Deputy Underwood-Nunez in dragging the victim’s lifeless body to the shore, where she immediately began lifesaving measures to restore his breathing. After approximately four cycles of CPR, the victim regained consciousness and was airlifted to a local hospital, where he was listed in stable condition.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

I

n the late afternoon of Saturday, April 27, 2013, Deputy underwood-nunez, assigned to the Century Regional Detention Facility, was off-duty and dining with her family in the Silverwood Lake campground area of San Bernardino County when she suddenly heard someone screaming for help. She looked toward the water and saw an individual splashing approximately 100 yards into the lake and quickly realized someone was drowning.

valor awarDs ceremony 2013

Deputy Jenna m. underwood-nunez

Thanks to the heroic actions of Deputy Underwood-Nunez, the victim, a 17-year old high school student, was expected to make a full recovery and graduate from high school in June 2013. For displaying great bravery above and beyond the call of duty, and placing herself and life of her baby in immediate life-threatening peril, Deputy Jenna Underwood-Nunez was awarded the meritorious conduct medal, gold.

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O

n March 25, 2012, Mrs. Tracy Granger of Juniper Hills, California was driving on the Angeles Forest Highway during a snow storm when she lost control of her vehicle near Mile Marker 10.47. Her vehicle slid off the roadway and down a 350-degree snow-covered embankment. Due to the rugged terrain and weather conditions, Mrs. Granger went unnoticed and lay critically injured at the bottom of the ravine. The next day her husband reported her missing and Palmdale Station personnel initiated an investigation and requested the assistance of Crescenta Valley Station personnel, including Montrose Search and Rescue Team members.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

The following day a systematic search of both the Angeles Crest Highway and Angeles Forest Highway began. Over the next several hours, 100 miles of roadway were searched by both land and air. At approximately 9:30 a.m., reserve Deputy Johnson spotted tire marks in the snow on the right shoulder of Angeles Forest Highway. He checked the area for any signs of the victim or her vehicle, described as a white pickup truck. Because of a recent snow storm and the white vehicle, the task was particularly difficult. Reserve Deputy Johnson eventually spotted the pickup at the bottom of the canyon and immediately radioed his discovery. Fearing for Mrs. Granger’s medical condition after being involved in a horrific traffic accident and being exposed to the elements for more than 12 hours, Reserve Deputy Johnson hurriedly descended the rugged snow-covered hillside with his medical bag and without supporting lines. He successfully negotiated a path to the bottom of the canyon and located Mrs. Granger lying outside her vehicle in the snow in extremely critical condition. He was able to detect a very faint pulse and immediately began administering emergency first aid.

valor awarDs ceremony 2013

A few moments later, sergeant slater and reserve Deputies moyneur and sheedy arrived on the scene. With additional lifesaving equipment, they too descended the steep terrain without a support line and provided additional emergency medical treatment to Mrs. Granger. Approximately five minutes later, Air Rescue 5 arrived and pilot Deputies Bogdan and osborne safely navigated the helicopter into the rugged canyon. The Crew Chief, Deputy airhart, lowered paramedic Deputies river and Desmarteau down to the crash scene via hoist. reserve members Daniels, koegler and godde, supported by sergeant gallo and Deputies martin, Diana, Burt and volunteer cronkhite, also arrived on scene. They worked together as a team to set up a truck-mounted winch cable to prepare for an over-the-side hoist rescue as a backup plan in the event Air 5 could not perform the rescue due to the inclement weather conditions. Approximately ten minutes later, the Air 5 pilots decided that an air rescue was necessary due to the victim’s critical injuries. They safely maneuvered the helicopter into the canyon, and Mrs. Granger was ultimately airlifted and transported to Huntington Hospital. According to hospital personnel, the victim had “flat-lined” three times but survived due to the heroic actions of her rescuers. For their lifesaving efforts, Volunteer Steven Cronkhite was awarded the Sheriff’s Star Scroll and Sergeants Paul Gallo and Mark Slater; Deputies Mark Desmarteau, Darrel Airhart, Rodger Burt, Frank Diana, Jeffrey Martin and Tracy River; and Reserve Deputies Lynda Daniels, Jeff Godde, and Frederick Koegler were awarded the lifesaving medal. For placing themselves in potential peril to save the life of another, Deputies Thomas Bogdan and Scott Osborne, and Reserve Deputies Cynthia Moyneur and Robert Sheedy were awarded the meritorious conduct medal, silver. For placing himself in immediate peril to save the life of another, with full knowledge of the risk involved, Reserve Deputy Jason Johnson was awarded the meritorious conduct medal, gold.

reserve Deputy Jason l. Johnson

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sergeant Paul v. gallo

sergeant mark f. slater

Deputy Darrel l. airhart

Deputy rodger a. Burt

Deputy mark J. Desmarteau

Deputy frank J. Diana

Deputy Jeffrey J. martin

Deputy Tracy D. river

reserve Deputy cynthia a. moyneurd reserve Deputy robert c. sheedy

2013/2014 Period of Transition

Deputy scott g. osborne

valor awarDs ceremony 2013

Deputy Thomas J. Bogdan

Photo not Available reserve Deputy lynda a. Daniels

reserve Deputy Jeff J. godde

reserve Deputy frederick c. koegler

volunteer steven e. cronkhite

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2013/2014 Period of Transition valor awarDs ceremony 2013

Deputy gamielle k. marshall

Deputy victor T. solis

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n August 11, 2012 at noon, Lakewood Station personnel received a call of a structure fire in the 9500 block of Rose Street in Bellflower. Deputies solis and marshall were the first to arrive at the scene. They instantly noticed dense black smoke rising from the back of the house and flames shooting out from under the eaves of the roof. They heard a male voice calling out for help from inside the burning residence. They looked through a living room window and saw an elderly man seated on a chair just a few feet from the front door. Deputies Solis and Marshall shouted at the man to open the front door. He explained that he could not because he was paralyzed. To make matters worse, the deputies saw that the entire structure was fortified with security bars, making entry into the home nearly impossible. The fire spread quickly as toxic fumes and black smoke began to fill the interior of the home. The situation became even more intense when Deputies Solis and Marshall learned from a neighbor that an elderly female may also have been trapped inside the house. The deputies requested breaching tools and tried to force the security door and window open with their bare hands. Both deputies knew the victim’s only chance of survival hinged on their ability to gain immediate entry into the home. Unable to get through the front door, they ran to the north door, where they saw the garage door literally melting due to the intensity of the heat. Deputy Marshall returned to the front door while Deputy Solis ran to the south side of the house. Deputy Solis pulled back the security window on his second attempt by bracing his legs against the stucco wall for leverage. When he pushed the window aside, a wave of intense heat and toxic black smoke enveloped him. Deputy Solis was unable gain entry through the window, but he refused to give up and ran to the front of the house to find another way in. During this time, another deputy arrived at the location with breach tools, and he and Deputy Marshall worked feverishly to breach the security door. Deputy Marshall hit the door with all his strength, but the door would not budge. They eventually rammed the door until one of the locks broke off. Unbeknownst to the deputies, smoke had partially cleared from the south bedroom where Deputy Solis earlier created an opening. This allowed a Good Samaritan to climb into the house. The Good Samaritan ran to the front door and tried to open it, but it was stuck. He then ran to the north door, where the raging fire was spreading, and was able to open it. Deputy Marshall ran into the house and disappeared behind a curtain of black smoke. He quickly located the elderly resident and emerged from behind the smoke with the elderly man hoisted over his shoulder. Deputy Marshall attempted to go back inside to look for a second victim when firefighters arrived, continued the rescue mission, and determined the house was clear of other occupants. Both Deputies Solis and Marshall were hospitalized overnight for smoke inhalation. Fortunately, no one else sustained injuries as a result of this incident. For placing themselves at grave risk to save the life of a paralyzed, elderly man who surely would have perished in the fire without their intervention, Deputy Victor Solis was awarded the meritorious conduct medal, silver and Deputy Gamielle Marshall was awarded the meritorious conduct medal, gold.

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Deputy Brent D. Del valle

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n November 29, 2011 at approximately 3:30 a.m., sergeant Johnson, sergeant maybury and Deputy Del valle, assigned to Norwalk Station, received a “suicidal person armed with a gun” call. As they drove to the location, the call was updated to indicate the suicidal person had just fired his weapon. Responding units rushed to the intersection of Dune and Elmcroft Avenues, approximately two blocks away from the location, to determine if less lethal options could be used. The call was updated again, indicating the suspect had left the location without his weapon and was headed toward Lakeside Park. Based on this information, Sergeant Maybury and Deputy Del Valle quickly established a containment. As the sergeants and deputy drove toward the location, they saw a man matching the description of the suspect run into the middle of the street carrying a bottle of liquor in one hand and a semiautomatic handgun in the other. The suspect, who had his gun down at his side, immediately began challenging Maybury, Johnson and Del Valle to kill him. They shouted at the suspect to put his gun on the ground, but the suspect continued to yell and demand that they kill him, at one point getting down on his hands and knees, pointing at his forehead, and telling the deputy and sergeants to shoot him. The suspect suddenly got back on his feet, and Sergeant Maybury and Deputy Del Valle immediately took cover behind their patrol vehicle’s open car doors as Sergeant Johnson took cover by his Chevy Tahoe. The suspect pointed his gun at them and fired a shot, striking the Tahoe. Knowing that inaction could result in injury or death to either themselves or their fellow deputies, they returned fire and struck the suspect, who fell to the ground and dropped his handgun.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

sergeant robert g. maybury

valor awarDs ceremony 2013

sergeant christopher l. Johnson

They immediately formulated a plan to use less lethal means to arrest the suspect, who continued to be uncooperative as the deputy and sergeants approached him. They pulled the suspect out of the street and behind the cover of an SUV as they did not know if additional suspects were still inside the location. The suspect was handcuffed and Sergeants Maybury and Johnson, along with additional deputies, cleared the location. The suspect’s handgun, a Smith and Wesson 9mm semiautomatic, was recovered at the scene. Sergeants Maybury and Johnson, and Deputy Del Valle demonstrated a high degree of discipline and tactical excellence during this incident by exhausting all options prior to using deadly force. For their exceptional bravery and placing themselves in immediate life-threatening peril by engaging an armed and dangerous suspect, Sergeant Robert Maybury, Sergeant Christopher Johnson, and Deputy Brent Del Valle were awarded the meritorious conduct medal, gold.

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2013/2014 Period of Transition valor awarDs ceremony 2013

lieutenant David Thompson

Deputy Jill greenwood

O

n July 27, 2012, a man kidnaped his estranged wife at gunpoint from her place of employment in the city of Malibu and forced her into her vehicle. In a violent rage, the suspect accused his wife of sleeping with a co-worker and said he would kill her, her boyfriend and himself before going to prison. The suspect held his wife at gunpoint while committing a violent sexual assault. Malibu/Lost Hills Station detectives interviewed the victim, who detailed the suspect’s violent past and said he owned a semiautomatic handgun and never left his home without it. She was fearful the suspect would kill her, her children and her co-worker. Her statements painted a picture of a dangerous, disturbed and violent man. Realizing the suspect was an immediate and imminent threat to the victim and the community as a whole, detectives quickly orchestrated a detailed plan to apprehend the suspect. They coordinated a pre-text telephone call between the victim and suspect, and the suspect agreed to meet the victim at a local restaurant. Undercover detectives were in a position of surveillance and intended to swiftly apprehend the suspect as he walked toward the restaurant. lieutenant Thompson and Deputy greenwood posed as patrons inside the restaurant to assist in positively identifying the suspect as he approached. Suspicious the police were present and waiting for him, the suspect, who did not look anything like his recent booking photo, used his familiarity with the restaurant to make it inside without being seen. However, one of the undercover detectives was convinced he was their man as he appeared to be holding down his shirt to conceal a firearm. The detective immediately alerted Thompson and Greenwood of his observation. Lieutenant Thompson and Deputy Greenwood positioned themselves between the suspect and innocent bystanders, and watched as the suspect walked around for a short time. He then exited the building and they followed him outside. The suspect appeared to be very nervous and agitated. When he positioned himself in front of pedestrians, including children, and appeared to identify Lieutenant Thompson and Deputy Greenwood as peace officers, he reached for a concealed weapon in his waistband. Due to the suspect’s position, lethal force was not an option. Demonstrating extraordinary courage and exceptional officer safety tactics, the detectives, without regard for their own safety, placed themselves directly in the line of fire to protect the public and attempted to distract the suspect. The suspect suddenly reached for his weapon, and they grabbed him before he could retrieve it. As they controlled his arms, Lieutenant Thompson was able to remove the weapon from the suspect’s grasp. A subsequent search of the suspect netted chilling evidence of his ominous plan. Concealed on his person was a loaded handgun, 63 rounds of ammunition, and a suicide/farewell note to his parents. He later admitted he had identified the two detectives as police officers. By placing themselves in harm’s way to protect innocent children and physically confronting an obviously armed and dangerous suspect, the selfless, heroic acts of the detectives averted an extensive and tragic loss of life. For their selfless courage in apprehending a man intent on ending the lives of numerous innocent victims, Lieutenant David Thompson and Deputy Jill Greenwood were awarded the meritorious conduct medal, silver.

p40

adjusted Budget fiscal year 2012-2013

Percent change (%)

$2,328,163,000

$2,290,172,000

1.63

$480,087,000

$400,288,000

16.62

other charges

$64,313,000

$64,315,000

0.00

capital assets - equipment

$35,927,000

$51,274,000

-42.72

$2,908,490,000

$2,806,049,000

3.52

$83,795,000

$99,032,000

-18.18

net Total

$2,824,695,000

$2,707,017,000

4.17

revenue

$1,529,609,000

$1,484,686,000

2.94

net county cost

$1,295,086,000

$1,222,331,000

5.62

salaries and employee Benefits

services and supplies

gross Total

less intrafund Transfers

DeParTmenT BuDgeT for fiscal year 2013-2014

final adopted fiscal year 2013-2014

2013/2014 Period of Transition

Department Budget for fiscal year 2013-2014

p41

rank

Total authorized

executive office of the sheriff

administrative & Training Division (excluding Personnel Administration)

administrative & Training Division (Personnel Administration)

central Patrol Division

east Patrol Division

north Patrol Division

BuDgeTeD PosTilions for THe DeParTmenT

2013/2014 Period of Transition

Budgeted Positions for the Department

sheriff

1

1

0

0

0

0

0

undersheriff

1

1

0

0

0

0

0

assistant sheriff

3

3

0

0

0

0

0

Division chief

12

0

0

0

1

1

1

area commander

30

3

1

0

3

1

2

captain

68

1

5

1

16

6

5

376

5

21

3

35

34

36

sergeant

1,307

11

54

13

135

112

117

Deputy sheriff generalist

8,480

14

137

42

745

606

746

10,278

39

218

59

925

760

907

105

0

105

0

0

0

0

custody assistants

1,295

0

0

1

26

29

36

Professional staff

7,475

48

879

317

227

198

228

Total Professional staff

8,875

48

984

318

253

227

264

Total Department

19,153

87

1,202

377

1,178

987

1,171

lieutenant

Total sworn

Deputy sheriff Trainee

As of 01/06/2014

p42

Detective Division

Homeland security Division

internal investigations Division

Technical services Division

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

2 2 2 4 3 2 2 1 2

6 6 5 6 4 7 5 2 3

35 28 19 52 20 39 23 7 19

133 124 70 145 179 141 101 46 26

716 458 1,324 1,779 745 542 569 7 50

893 619 1,421 1,987 852 732 701 64 101

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

33 0 31 655 484 0 0 0 0

223

589

527

605

2,118

176

235

19

1,041

256

589

603

1,260

2,602

176

235

19

1,041

1,149

1,208

2,024

3,247

3,454

908

936

83

1,142

BuDgeTeD PosTilions for THe DeParTmenT

custody services Division (Specialized Programs & Medical Services)

0 2013/2014 Period of Transition

custody services Division (Administration & General Population)

court services Division

countywide services Division

south Patrol Division

0

p43

DeParTmenT Personnel sTrengTH

2013/2014 Period of Transition

Department Personnel strength

ethnicity

gender

rank

Total

male

female

white

Black

asian

filipino

sheriff

1

1

0

0

0

1

0

0

0

undersheriff

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

assistant sheriff

4

3

1

3

1

0

0

0

0

Division chief

12

11

1

6

2

3

0

1

0

commander

28

23

5

18

5

4

0

1

0

captain

70

61

9

54

3

11

0

2

0

377

318

59

238

45

78

1

13

2

1,253

1,032

220

713

124

338

7

52

19

1

1

0

1

0

0

0

0

0

Deputy

7,488

6,150

1,339

2,949

713

3,284

15

394

133

Total sworn

9,234

7,600

1,634

3,982

893

3,719

23

463

154

82

18

43

10

40

0

5

2

200

136

64

61

15

106

0

15

3

Professional staff

7,609

3,023

4,586

1,489

1,565

2,677

8

958

912

Total Professional staff

7,809

3,159

4,650

1,550

1,580

2,783

8

973

915

40

60

20

20

36

0

12

12

10,759

6,284

5,532

2,473

6,502

31

1,436

1,069

63

37

33

15

38

0

8

6

lieutenant sergeant Deputy iv

Percentage (%) Deputy sheriff Trainee

Percentage (%) Total Personnel Percentage (%)

17,043

As of January 16, 2014 Note: This report does not include the 120-day employees and the Reservists. p44

Hispanic america indian

calendar year 2013

Percent change (%)

Part i reported crimes

criminal Homicide

183

189

3

forcible rape

500

479

-4

robbery

4,688

4,287

-9

aggravated assault

8,761

8,278

-6

Burglary

14,443

14,293

-1

larceny Theft

33,078

32,548

-2

grand Theft auto

11,294

11,030

-2

504

423

-16

73,451

71,527

-3

112,890

108,684

-4

6,650

4,981

-25

119,540

113,665

-5

$203,655,774

$199,774,251

-2

amount recovered

$42,093,875

$42,386,834

1

Percent recovered

21

21

arson Total

DeParTmenT ParT i acTiviTy summary

calendar year 2012

2013/2014 Period of Transition

Department Part i crime activity summary

arrests adult arrests Juvenile arrests Total

Part i crimes stolen and recovered Property amount stolen

p45

2013/2014 Period of Transition

The year 2014 brought significant changes to the los angeles county sheriff’s Department. former sheriff lee Baca retired at the end of January, prompting the Board of supervisors to select an interim sheriff for the remainder of the year. interim sheriff John scott was appointed by the Board and took office on Jan. 30th. sheriff scott appointed neal Tyler, a retired chief, to be his second in command in the newly created position of executive officer. in another major move, sheriff scott revamped the Department’s core values. This past year saw the re-dedication of two important landmarks for los angeles county and the Department: The Biscailuz Training center and the Hall of Justice. also, the demand for ridership as well as security prompted the Department to break out Transit services into its own division. and by the end of this year, the los angeles county sheriff’s Department will have a new sheriff. welcome to 2015.

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department

CORE VALUES INTEGRITY

COURAGE

COMPASSION

wHaT’s new in 2014

PROFESSIONALISM

ACCOUNTABILITY

RESPECT With integrity, compassion, and courage, we serve our communities-protecting life and property, being diligent and professional in our acts and deeds, holding ourselves and each other accountable for our actions at all times, while respecting the dignity and rights of all.

Earning the Public’s Trust Every Day!

On Wednesday, June 11, 2014, the new Biscailuz Training Center was reopened. Over 100 people attended the ribbon-cutting event and toured the new facility. This historic ceremony was the culmination of years of hard work and planning. Deputy training started at Biscailuz Center in early 1946. Recruits learned officer survival tactics, laws of arrest, firearms training, and physical training and Department procedures. Academy training classes continued through 1984 until Biscailuz closed down due to space limitations. The last Academy class to graduate was Class #220 on March 30, 1984.

core values In a Department-wide announcement of the new Core Values, Sheriff Scott said, “The values stated here are not new to any of you. They are the same deeply-held values about the significant aspects of our profession that we have shared for years. However, the way they are described is new, and I thank the committee of deputies, sergeants and professional staff members who created it.”

imPaac is a Better way to do Business In 2012, the Citizen’s Commission on Jail Violence (CCJV) recommended that the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department create an Internal Audit and Inspections Division. The Department concurred with the recommendation. Renamed the Internal Monitoring, Performance Audits and Accountability Command (IMPAAC) under Sheriff John L. Scott, the IMPAAC was created to conduct audits and augment Department-wide inspectional practices, as well as to uphold quality of service, consistency, accountability, effective problem solving, and public trust. p46

Biscailuz Training center after nearly 30 years

What’s in John l. scott appointed sheriff

Sheriff Scott was the Undersheriff of Orange County from 2008 until his appointment as the Sheriff of Los Angeles County on January 30, 2014. His appointment will remain in place until December 2014, when the newly elected Sheriff will assume office. Sheriff Scott graduated from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Academy in 1969. He worked his way up the ranks until being promoted to Chief of Custody Operations in 2002, a position he held until his retirement in March of 2005.

executive officer The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department historically has had an Undersheriff as the second in command of the Department. Sheriff John Scott was appointed when there was no Undersheriff. He opted to keep that position empty and instead he created the Executive Officer position. That vital second in command post went to retired Chief Neal B. Tyler.

Transit Policing Division Sheriff Scott’s vision for a better Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department included the need to restructure many units and bureaus to move the Department in new directions. He turned his attention to the nations’ third largest transit agency, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Transit Services Bureau and the Metrolink Bureau.

®

New 2014

The voters of Los Angeles County have spoken and it’s Jim McDonnell as the new Sheriff of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Sheriff-elect McDonnell will be sworn in December 1st at the newly minted Hall of Justice, where the department will move in the first part of next year. Sheriff-elect McDonnell takes the helm of the largest Sheriff’s Department in the nation, which has suffered through challenging times the last several years. Sheriff-elect McDonnell brings an outsiders view rooted in a 33-year law enforcement career at the Los Angeles Police Department, where he rose through the ranks to serve as second-in-command under then-Police Chief Bill Bratton as well as the chief of the Long Beach Police Department since 2010. Sheriff-elect McDonnell becomes the 32nd sheriff of the county with more than 10,000 million residents. Although, Sheriff-elect McDonnell is the 32nd Sheriff, he is only the 27th individual to hold the highest law enforcement office in the county.

a Trip Back in Time through the Hall of Justice The Hall of Justice is located at 211 West Temple Street in Los Angeles, at the corner of Broadway and Temple Streets, amidst the Los Angeles Civic Center district.

wHaT’s new in 2014

welcome to our new sheriff

2013/2014 Period of Transition

Metro had already requested an audit of the Transit Services Bureau. Once complete, a key recommendation was that the geographic bureaus policing Metro be brought under one newly formed Division. While reviewing the recommendations, Sheriff Scott went a step further, placing all of the LASD transit policing units under one division, creating the Transit Policing Division.

Constructed in 1925, this Beaux Arts-style building was built as an imposing structure meant to convey a sense of justice and public importance. Consisting of 14 stories and 550,000 square-feet, at the time of its construction the Hall of Justice was the nation’s most modern consolidated judicial facility. The Hall of Justice accommodated a wide range of functions for the County of Los Angeles, including the Sheriff’s Department, County Coroner, District Attorney, Public Defender, and Tax Collector. Additionally, the building housed 17 courtrooms and a jail with over 750 cells. January of 1994 marked a dramatic change because of damage sustained in the Northridge Earthquake. For 20 years, the iconic structure – once the symbol of justice and integrity in Los Angeles County - sat empty. Finally, the Board of Supervisors was able to approve the renovation of the building and it was finally completed in the fall of 2014. The Sheriff’s Department and District Attorney Personnel are expected to be moved in by year’s end. Many people, both residents and employees alike, are pleased that the Hall of Justice has been returned to her glory as the oldest and most elaborate building in the Los Angeles Civic Center. p47

®

An Interim Change of Leadership Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department

message from sheriff John l. scott an interim change of leadership

As I said when I was appointed your interim Sheriff by the Board of Supervisors back in February that during my 36-year career as a member of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, I discovered the key to its greatness is the quality, professionalism and commitment of the more than 18,000 employees. Nothing about that has changed, and I thank you for continuing to protect the public safety so capably and effectively. As interim Sheriff, I made a commitment to the Board of Supervisors, and to the public, to be more than a caretaker. I intended to effect progressive change during my 10 months in office, and it took teamwork on everyone’s part to make that possible. And that is exactly what happened. I am proud to announce with your cooperation and help, we have begun to restore the public trust by shoring up and creating new, progressive systems of accountability, and implementing new policies that lock down management practices that will prevent any form of malfeasance. I have tried, again with your help, to eliminate activities and symbols that stem from or reflect cronyism and abuse of power. I assessed command personnel for leadership and supervisors for direct engagement with their subordinates and superiors alike. My goal was to stabilize and improve the upper echelons of this department, so as to pave the way for the next elected sheriff. Furthermore, we worked hard to counter the undeserved, broad-stroke negative characterizations of the Department as a whole, and make it clear to the community that we are worthy of the public’s trust, confidence, and respect.

message from sHeriff JoHn l. scoTT

You have all bolstered my faith in the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department as the premier law enforcement agency in the nation. The people of Los Angeles County need not worry about their safety because this department, whether professional or sworn, is on the job.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

As I close the door on the last 10 months of being your Sheriff, I want to thank each and every member of this incredible department for your hard work and cooperation. This transitional period has been a challenge for everyone, I know, but, I think, it’s been an important time to steady this remarkable department.

Your pride in your identity as a Department member, and in your personal contribution to our organization, should never waver. Thank you for continuing to maintain the high ethical standards of the Department, and for helping me to welcome the new elected-Sheriff, Jim McDonnell, to a law enforcement agency of unparalleled excellence.

John L. Scott, Sheriff

p49

Biscailuz Training center reopens in 2014

Biscailuz Training cenTer reoPens in 2014

2013/2014 Period of Transition

The recruits ceremoniously marched, helicopters dotted the sky. you could even hear shots being fired on a nearby range.

This ceremony was to mark the reopening of the Biscailuz Training Center. On Wednesday, June 11, 2014, Sheriff John L. Scott was joined by current and former Department members, City Mayors, special guest members of federal, state, and local government agencies to re-dedicate and reopen the new Biscailuz Training Center. More than 100 people attended the ribbon-cutting event and toured the new facility. This historic ceremony was the culmination of years of hard work and planning. Deputy training started at Biscailuz Center in early 1946. Recruits learned officer survival tactics, laws of arrest, firearms training, and physical training and Department procedures. By August of 1947 the facilities were expanded to include a juvenile detention facility. Academy training classes continued through 1984 until Biscailuz closed down due to space limitations. The last Academy class to graduate was Class #220 on March 30, 1984. Since then, the academy classes have been located at the Sheriff’s Training Academy and Regional Services (STARS) Center in Whittier. Los Angeles County’s Board of Supervisors voted to move the training facility from Whittier back to Monterey Park in February, 2010. Construction began in March 2011 and includes over 36,000 square feet of classrooms, offices, a gym, locker rooms, a new parade deck and grinder and a stage that holds nearly 800 people. The new training center includes an expanded parking lot which accommodates 232 staff and visitor parking spaces. The total cost of the project was approximately $22,132,000 dollars. Academy Class #402 will begin training on June 23, 2014 and will be the first class at the

p50

2013/2014 Period of Transition

“Attending the academy is the fundamental step in every single person’s career who dons the badge and gun. It is the place where the core values of this great organization are instilled into a recruit,” said Sheriff Scott. “The concrete walls and buildings may be new, but the tradition of this academy as a model of justice through training is not.” During the academy, deputy hopefuls train five days a week, typically eight hours a day, taking classes in narcotics, child abuse, use of force and self-defense. They memorize penal and radio codes. They learn how to drive a patrol car, fire a weapon and endure physical training.

Biscailuz Training cenTer reoPens in 2014

new facility. "I look forward to returning to the Training Academy at Biscailuz Center and bringing back the many traditions and the glory that made the Sheriff’s Academy so special when it was located in East Los Angeles," said Training Bureau Captain Allan Smith.

Visitors on Wednesday toured the classrooms. Fresh coats of paint covered the walls. Some department officials said that, in a way, returning to the facility was like coming home. “The nostalgia will be reinvigorating for the staff and recruits,” said Lieutenant Tom McNeal, a 25-year department veteran who graduated from the training facility in Whittier. The academy was recently extended from 20 to 22 weeks, and the next class will include about 100 recruits. Those who graduate move on to jobs in the department’s custody division or local police agencies. The Sheriff’s Training Academy and Regional Services Center in Whittier will continue to be used as office space and evidence storage. The new center, meanwhile, will give recruits and training staff better access to technology and, likely, a more demanding physical environment – trails around the facility are notoriously challenging for the required fitness exercises, such as wind sprints. “The runs will be much tougher now for recruits,” McNeal said. p51

a TriP Back in Time THrougH THe Hall of JusTice

2013/2014 Period of Transition

a Trip Back in Time through the Hall of Justice The Hall of Justice is located at 211 West Temple Street in Los Angeles, at the corner of Broadway and Temple Streets, amidst the Los Angeles Civic Center district. The structure is in close proximity to Los Angeles County’s main administration buildings, federal and state courts, municipal government facilities and key cultural centers, including the Music Center and the Disney Concert Hall. While the Civic Center continues to be

refaced into one of the most architecturally progressive districts in the downtown area, efforts have been made to preserve this important historical landmark. Constructed in 1925, this Beaux Arts-style building was built as an imposing structure meant to convey a sense of justice and public importance. Consisting of 14 stories and 550,000 square-feet, at the time of its

construction the Hall of Justice was the nation’s most modern consolidated judicial facility. The Hall of Justice was designed in the classic Italianate architectural style and was constructed with Type-I non-combustible building materials, including concrete floor slabs, a steel frame structure encased in concrete, a granite exterior veneer and hollow clay tile partitions on the interior. The stunning interior included an ornate, barrel-vaulted entry foyer, gold-marble walls and large ionic columns supporting the exquisitely gilded ceiling. The Hall of Justice accommodated a wide range of functions for the County of Los Angeles, including the Sheriff’s Department, County Coroner, District Attorney, Public Defender, and Tax Collector. Additionally, the building housed 17 courtrooms and a jail with over 750 cells. Space and staffing needs grew significantly over time and many departments moved out, leaving the Sheriff’s Department as its only occupant. Behind the imposing edifice, history-making events were commonplace. Motorcycle daredevil Evel Knievel was sentenced to the county jail on assault charges. When he and 20 other inmates were released from the Hall of Justice jail, Knievel ordered 20 limousines to transport the inmates to their destinations. Limousines lined the street and backed up traffic, waiting to retrieve the inmates. The Hall of Justice also housed notorious criminals like American mobster Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel, serial killer Charles Manson and assassin Sirhan Sirhan, and

p52

More than 900 personnel, an expensive data system and thousands of records and investigative files were relocated into leased facilities across the County. For 20 years, the iconic structure – once the symbol of justice and integrity in Los Angeles County - sat empty. Her windows boarded up, her majestic pillars and granite facade looking dismal and forlorn, as she overlooked the 101 freeway. Through the years, several attempts were made to bring the building back to its original state, however the project was always halted as the price tag continued to soar. Finally, the Board of Supervisors was able to approve the renovation of the building. In addition to the extensive reconstruction, a 1,000 car parking garage was to be built to accommodate the many employees who will be assigned to the building. The Hall of Justice renovation was finally completed in the fall of 2014. Installing computers and phones, moving the furniture in and ensuring everything is in place should be completed by the end of 2014, when Sheriff’s Department and District Attorney Personnel are expected to be moved in.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

January of 1994 marked a dramatic change for the Department and the Hall of Justice. Because of damage sustained in the Northridge Earthquake, the Hall of Justice was forced to close its doors after 69 years.

This exquisite piece of architecture, with its Sierra white granite from a quarry North of Fresno, will glisten brightly when it’s finished. Many people, both residents and employees alike, are pleased that the Hall of Justice has been returned to her glory as the oldest and most elaborate building in the Los Angeles Civic Center.

a TriP Back in Time THrougH THe Hall of JusTice

served as the backdrop for many Hollywood movies and scores of television programs including Dragnet and Get Smart.

p53

Hall of Justice rededication sheriff scott, D.a. Jackie lacey rededicate Hall of Justice in style at ribbon-cutting ceremony

On October 8, 2014 Sheriff John L. Scott and District Attorney Jackie Lacey rededicated the Hall of Justice in a Grand Reopening Ceremony.

The Hall of Justice, 211 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, is at the corner of Broadway and Temple streets amid the center of the Los Angeles Civic Center district. This historically important and architecturally stunning Art Deco building built in 1925 is not only beautiful, but also stood as the functional centerpiece of the Los Angeles County criminal justice system. For 60 years, the 14-story, 550,000 square-foot icon held offices for the Sheriff’s Department, District Attorney, Coroner, Public Defender and Tax Collector; housed Los Angeles County jail inmates; and held Los Angeles County courts. The Hall of Justice sat vacant for almost two decades after the 1994 Northridge Earthquake. In 2011, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a $231 million restoration project. It was a practical decision, allowing close proximity of the Hallto other Los Angeles County administrative buildings, federal and state courts, municipal government facilities, and key cultural centers. It was a fiscally sound decision with most renovation costs being offset by termination of other property lease obligations of County agencies which moved into the building, as well as lowered construction costs which resulted from the slow economy.

“I have enjoyed seeing The Hall of Justice through many stages in my career. I was impressed by its grandeur as a young deputy, appreciated its fine detail daily while working there as a Chief’s Aide, and I am thrilled to see its classic beauty restored, now as Sheriff,” said Sheriff John L. Scott. “I am proud to see The Hall repurposed to serve the citizens of Los Angeles County once again.” “I am delighted to see this architectural gem restored," Los Angeles County District Attorney Jackie Lacey said. "I commend the Los Angeles County leaders who worked to preserve and reopen this piece of living history. Although it’s no longer a courthouse, it still will be a place where justice is served.” “The Hall of Justice has been painstakingly restored to commemorate its tradition of justice, while preserving the building’s unique history,” said Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chairman Don Knabe. “As the new headquarters of the Sheriff’s Department and our District Attorney, the Hall of Justice represents a fresh start, and the opportunity to move forward and carve out an illustrious new legacy for law enforcement in Los Angeles County.”

Hall of JusTice reDeDicaTion

It is with great pride that Sheriff John L. Scott, District Attorney Jackie Lacey, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, and the Chief Executive Officer announced the rededication and reopening of the Hall of Justice.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

On Wednesday, October 8, 2014, after years of detailed planning and diligent restoration, efforts to preserve this landmark jewel and restore the Hall of Justice as the headquarters for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office have come to fruition.

We are proud to rededicate and reopen the Hall of Justice to be once again the centerpiece of the Los Angeles County justice system.

In 2012, preservation, renovation and structural improvement efforts began to reawaken the Hall’s beauty. Progressively and methodically, her walls were repurposed, her framework was strengthened and her elegance was restored.

p55

Population management Bureau (PmB) custody services Division general Population

Prior to being housed at any jail facility, all inmates are processed and undergo a detailed classification and medical screening conducted by PMB personnel. The inmate classification process consists of a series of questionnaires designed to provide comprehensive background information. The information gleaned from this classification process is used to place inmates into the educational, vocational, fire camp, and therapy programs best suited to each individual’s needs. After the inmate has been classified, the Central Housing Unit (CHU) is responsible for identifying housing locations for inmates based on their security level and/or special handling needs. The Community Transition Unit (CTU) identifies and links inmates to helpful services from public, private, faith-based organizations (FBO) and community-based organizations (CBO) upon their release from jail, to promote a seamless transition and successful reintegration into the community. CTU personnel work directly with the inmate population and are committed to the mission of finding an effective means of breaking the cycle of recidivism. Recently, the Community Resource and Reentry Center (CRRC), which is staffed with medical professionals, CTU staff, government organizations, and FBO/CBO partners was opened. Located on the second floor of the Inmate Reception Center, The CRRC provides comprehensive health and reentry services to recently released inmates. Ultimately, the CRRC hopes to provide pharmacy services, opportunities for inmates to more easily obtain California identification cards and/or copies of their birth certificates,

Community-Based Alternatives to Custody (CBAC) identifies and transfers sentenced inmates from jail to alternative work and/or substance abuse programs. Inmates participating in these programs not only help reduce jail population, they gain the opportunity to expand their work skills and experience and receive help and counseling if necessary. Inmates assigned to these programs either participate in an Electronic Monitoring Program (EMP) or Work Release Program (WRP). EMP inmates are assessed by the Los Angeles County Probation Department and approved for assignment by the Department. While on this program, inmates are monitored by Sentinel Monitoring Company using an ankle bracelet and telephone receiver. Inmates assigned to WRP are also assessed and approved for the program by the Department and work at a pre-determined site in the county, usually within proximity of their residence. The overall monitoring of these Inmates rests with the Compliance Team, whose major responsibility is to ensure program participants are adhering to the rules set forth by the courts, CBO case managers, and the Department. Problematic inmates are returned to a traditional jail facility where they will serve the remainder of their sentence. In addition to reducing the inmate population within the jail system, PMB also follows the offender’s progress in community-based programs. The Analysis Team’s main function is to track the percentage of inmates sent out to various programs, how many offenders return to custody, within what time frame and for what crimes. The principles of PMB are designed specifically to assist inmates in their transition from custody to civilian life. Inmates who are better prepared for their transition back into the community have a significantly better chance of success than those who have not received the benefits of training.

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To address the issue of a growing inmate population with limited space and resources, the Population Management Bureau (PMB) was created. Personnel used for inmate population management were placed under one roof, under one captain, as a new bureau within Custody Division. One of the bureau’s objectives is to locate programs within custody and the community to educate and rehabilitate inmates in an attempt to reduce recidivism.

assistance in applying for reinstatement of government benefits, disability services, referrals to community service agencies, taxi vouchers, bus tokens, and transportation to FBO and CBO treatment facilities via shuttle vehicles.

cusToDy services Division general PoPulaTion

For decades, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has operated the largest jail system in the world. As in most modern jails, overcrowding presents a constant obstacle. The Los Angeles County jail system houses nearly 20,000 individuals on any given day. In October of 2011, the challenges of managing the jail population were exacerbated following the implementation of Public Safety Realignment (Assembly Bill 109).

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a Better way to do Business has Positive imPaac executive offices

The IMPAAC’s core mission is to conduct audits and inspections based on identified risk management concerns, while examining policy and procedure compliance. Audits are a formalized process, developed utilizing the Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards (GAGAS) and the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing.

The IMPAAC team structure was designed consistent with the new organizational layout of the Department (Custody Operations, Patrol Operations, Countywide Services, and Administrative & Technical Services). The IMPAAC is being implemented over three phases and recently began Phase II. Four Inspectional/Audit Teams will ultimately be in place to service each of the areas of the Department under the command of an Assistant Sheriff. Each Inspectional/Audit Team will consist of one Team Lieutenant, eight Sergeants, two Civilian Auditors, and two Operations Assistant IIIs. The IMPAAC also will have a full operations section to handle the administrative functions of the unit. The IMPAAC is part of the Department’s Executive Division and reports directly to the Sheriff through Commander Gerald K. Cooper. Captain David A. Walters recently took command of the IMPAAC and has been charged with full implementation of the operation, which includes selection and assignment of personnel, along with further defining the mission and goals of the unit. Although the unit is not fully staffed, it has begun the process of Departmental inspections and audits consistent with its proposed mission and goals.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

The goal of the IMPAAC is to identify and address potential deficiencies within the Department through audits, inspections and reviews. The focus of the IMPAAC is to ensure prompt and effective action to strengthen our level of service, while reducing the Department’s exposure to liability. As part of the process to develop the IMPAAC, the Department conducted a review and assessment of existing command and operations inspections. A Risk Management Survey was then completed to identify the areas of greatest concern to its operations and determined staffing and resources needed for the command.

An inspection is generally considered a review and has a narrow scope which focuses on a specific area. The review has fewer objectives and requires less time to complete. The IMPAAC submits audit and inspection reports to the Sheriff for final review.

eXecuTive offices

In 2012, the Citizen’s Commission on Jail Violence (CCJV) recommended that the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department create an Internal Audit and Inspections Division to conduct audits, monitor policy compliance and conduct inspections. Then Sheriff, Leroy D. Baca, concurred with the Commission’s recommendation, thereby proposing the creation of the Inspectional Services Command that was later renamed the Internal Monitoring, Performance Audits and Accountability Command (IMPAAC) under Sheriff John L. Scott. The IMPAAC was created to conduct audits and augment Department-wide inspectional practices, as well as to uphold quality of service, consistency, accountability, effective problem solving, and public trust.

An office building for the IMPAAC has been leased in Monterey Park and is currently being renovated to accommodate the needs of the unit. It is anticipated that the IMPAAC will move to its new location in September of 2014. As IMPAAC becomes a fully functional unit, the need for additional personnel will increase. Sworn and professional staff interested in a challenging assignment that offers the opportunity to improve their Department as it moves into the future, will be selected as positions become available.

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Building relationships, lower crime rates spotlight compton station in 2014 Patrol operations • central Patrol Division

Compton Station is particularly proud of our Human Trafficking efforts, the inception of the Town Sheriff Program, expansion of the Youth Activities League programs and Camera Surveillance Systems to aid in crime reduction.

Since the inception of this program, we have seen an increase in the reporting of crime-related tips, and in the process, we have furthered our effort to maintain open lines of communication with the public. Various city officials, organizations, and residents have expressed enthusiastic approval of the program.

On Friday, August 30, 2013, Compton Station detectives were investigating a human trafficking case, and discovered two underage runaways from Missouri and Louisiana had been forced into prostitution. With the assistance of additional department resources, this investigation led to the rescue of the minors and the arrest of four individuals for a variety of sex-related and human trafficking charges. Historically, certain areas of the city have been plagued by prostitution, but this event was the catalyst to a larger “Sex Trafficking” problem. The following months resulted in the creation of a human trafficking taskforce comprised of Major Crimes Bureau, Federal agencies and station personnel. Through this collaboration of efforts, coupled with the great work of the station’s patrol resources, hundreds of prostitution-related arrests were made. Directed patrol and motel abatement operations were increased in conjunction with the gathering of intelligence for detectives. Additionally, Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas hosted an anti-human trafficking march in Compton, which proved to be very successful. Ultimately, the information gathered uncovered a criminal enterprise known as “Compton Division.” It was discovered that this trio of pimps was primarily responsible for the prostitution and potential drug-related activity along Long Beach Boulevard.

We also added one additional deputy to our Youth Activities League staff which has led to increased youth participation and programs. Compton Station has partnered with the city with a Gang Resistance Education and Training Program grant to educate youth on life-choices and positive decision-making. This added city funding has resulted in increased staff, increased programs, and enrollment is as high as it’s ever been. The City Surveillance Project, began several years ago and has continued to progress. This year (22) cameras have been added to the city’s parks. The last phase of the camera project is in the planning phase and (46) cameras will be added throughout the city with the main focus along Long Beach Boulevard corridor.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

our four council districts, along with a special assignment deputy. These deputies have served as direct point-of-contact to the community members residing in the geographical areas where they are assigned. They also serve as a direct liaison to their respective city council member. This enables the Sheriff’s Department to be more effective in enforcing quality of life issues and fostering a positive relationship with the community, in both city and county areas.

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Compton Sheriff’s Station has seen another outstanding year of success with lowering crime rates and building relationships with City Officials and the community we serve. In keeping with the basic principles of our Core Values, we go about our daily duties by performing them with integrity, compassion, courage, accountability, professionalism and respect. Many successful accomplishments have been reached through the proactive police work of the deputies.

On April 14, 2014, the Major Crimes Bureau, announced the arrest of these three individuals. This was not only a decisive blow to this criminal empire, but it was also a major accomplishment to our enforcement efforts. These individuals each face the possibility of serving major time in the state penitentiary, for charges ranging from pimping and pandering, to human trafficking. Equally successful, has been our Town Sheriff Program. The Town Sheriff Program was introduced on September 17, 2013. A lead deputy (Town Sheriff) was assigned to each of p61

altadena station continues crime reduction success in 2014 Patrol operations • east Patrol Division

In addition to the crime fighting aspect of community involvement, Altadena station’s Community Relations / Crime Prevention Team held several events to promote interaction with the community. ➢ On April 3, 2014, Captain Benedict invited the community to a Town Hall meeting held at the Altadena Community Center. ➢ On April 26, 2014, the community relations team held its third annual classic community car show at Altadena’s Farnsworth Park. ➢ On June 26, 2014, with support from the Sheriff’s Support Group of Altadena, the third annual golf tournament was held at Sierra La Verne Country Club. ➢ On August 5, 2014, National Night Out was held at Altadena’s Farnsworth Park! conclusion: In 2014, Altadena station has established programs which have enabled us to embrace and promote positive relationships with the community, especially in the area of our outreach programs to the youth of the Altadena. As we move toward 2015, Altadena station is committed to continuing community programs and we will work with the community of Altadena to ensure we are united in our efforts.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

Programs: In 2014, Altadena station embarked on implementing two key programs, a Juvenile Intervention Deputy, and the reintroduction of the Altadena Explorer Program. Each program will significantly increase our effective outreach to the youth of Altadena. Both Captains Reed and Benedict embraced and stressed the importance of youth programs knowing they are an important component of reducing crime. Altadena station also established a School Resource Deputy position as another method of reaching the community youth. The deputy is available to students, and administrators on Altadena school campuses throughout the week and works in conjunction with detective bureau to assist with the investigation of juvenile related incidents. Altadena station has and will continue to partner with the Pasadena Unified School District (the paramount agency responsible for administration of the school system within the unincorporated County area of Altadena) to expand its Juvenile Intervention programs. Altadena station personnel are also involved in the V.I.D.A. (Vital Intervention Directional Alternatives) and the Y.A.L. (Youth Athletic League) programs which help youth, through intervention programs, make good decisions.

August. Boys and girls ages 11-14 years old took a break from their summer activities to become junior detectives for a week and received an inside look at how law enforcement handles calls for service in their communities and how certain crimes are investigated.

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The year 2014 began with Captain John S. Benedict as Altadena station’s Unit Commander. Captain Benedict’s main goals established for the year was to continue the station’s success with reducing crime, while fostering community involvement to work toward a lasting connection between the station and the Altadena community. Central to the Captain’s overall goal of maintaining the relationship between the station and the community, he identified several key areas that would help the station obtain the goal and began implementing his crime reduction programs. On June 22nd, 2014, Captain Christopher J. Reed assumed command of Altadena station. Captain Reed followed suit and added his crime prevention techniques by implementing the Problem Specific Policing Team and continuing the crime reduction methods already in place by Captain Benedict.

During the summer of 2014, staff from Altadena station, under the direction of Juvenile Intervention Deputy Scott Rule, invited local youth to attend a CSI (Crime Scene Investigation) camp held the second week of June and the first week of

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multi-Jurisdictional emergency response Training Patrol operations • east Patrol Division

The training, which began as a simple collection of practical law enforcement applications, was originally designed to provide local law enforcement officers with an opportunity to demonstrate their skills in the reasonable handling of commonly encountered critical incidents. These incidents included situations involving

However, in the wake of several tragic shootings and terrorist incidents on nationwide school campuses and in other public venues, the simple tactics training was transformed into a multi-jurisdictional rapid response anti-terrorism curriculum. Officially titled MACTAC/EASS (Multi-Assault Counter Terrorism Action Capability Rapid Response/Enhanced Active Shooter Strategies) training evolved when federal, state and county agencies throughout Crescenta Valley realized they must train together to effectively work together in the event of a terrorist attack or other public emergency. The MACTAC/EASS training was specifically designed to facilitate and reinforce the skills of law enforcement emergency responders in the pursuit and neutralization of one or more simulated deadly threats. The realistic drills required law enforcement first responders to utilize their training, experience and skill to quickly protect civilian victims from a simulated terrorist attack and active shooter situation. Participants also had an opportunity to practice their skills with role players in the areas of victim removal, triage treatments and transportation from a danger zone. Participation allowed federal, state and local agencies to work together in several dynamic situations, while exposing assisting law enforcement agencies to the tactics of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

In August 2014, Crescenta Valley Station personnel teamed up with Altadena Station, the California Highway Patrol, members of the Department’s Master Field Training Officer Cadre, Parks Bureau and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory Protective and Fire Services Division to conduct a joint agency emergency response and terrorism training. The curriculum of which, tested the area’s first responders in their ability to work together to make tactically sound, split-second decisions in tense, uncertain and rapidly evolving situations.

domestic violence, child abuse, mentally ill individuals in crises, high-risk vehicle stops and seatbelt tactics. Each critical incident required a threat assessment, situational awareness, tactical planning, tactical awareness, timely decisions in force options, seatbelt safety, and practice in coordination and dynamic response options.

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East Patrol Division’s Crescenta Valley Station is best known for its vast mountainous area that surrounds and comprises the city of La Cañada Flintridge, as well as the unincorporated communities of Montrose, La Crescenta, Lopez Canyon, Kagel Canyon, Little Tujunga Canyon, Big Tujunga Canyon, Mount Wilson and the Angeles National Forest. The station’s popular recreational setting brings attention to the region’s skilled search and rescue team and the team’s ability to work in unison with other public safety entities. These entities include the US Forestry Service, the California Fish and Game Commission, and the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Lesser known about the Crescenta Valley Station area is the diverse multi-jurisdictional law enforcement responsibilities that rely on teamwork between the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and other law enforcement agencies.

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santa clarita valley sheriff’s station Patrol operations • north Patrol Division

®

SCV Sheriff @SCVSHERIFF Official Twitter of the @LASDHQ Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station Roosevelt Johnson, Captain - Follow does not equal endorsement SatnaClarita.LASD.org Santa Clarita, California facebook.com/santaclaritava... Joined March 2009

Crime prevention is one of the common goals of all law enforcement agencies throughout Los Angeles County. Many agencies, are leveraging the benefits of social media to educate larger audiences on crime prevention tactics, provide helpful tips and to promote awareness of important issues, along with fostering partnerships with the community. During 2013 and 2014, Santa Clarita Valley Station distinguished itself as one of the leading stations to utilize social media. By implementing strategies focusing on the public’s needs versus their wants, the station set a great example to other law enforcement agencies. One of Santa Clarita Valley Station’s most effective crime prevention tools is the J-Team, which is funded by the City of Santa Clarita. The J-Team or Juvenile Intervention Team addresses narcotics-related crimes

The J-Team consistently made hundreds of arrests and regularly provided arrestees with sustainable intervention programs to avoid relapse. Each of the station’s eight crime prevention zones is overseen by a zone leader deputy who is responsible for a detailed review of all crime within their zone on a daily basis. These zone leaders are known as the Crime Prevention Unit (CPU). Allocation of the resources are continuing to be determined by station leaders through comprehensive weekly operational meetings, where details of all Part I crimes are discussed, logged on Zone Briefing Reports, and are addressed like never before in the station’s history. Armed with information from their research, zone leaders attend patrol briefings to inform station staff, reach out through crime or public safety bulletins and social media, and ultimately work towards immediately addressing the issue or solving the crime before time passes and the criminals actions escalate to the level of a crime spree. Partnership in Crime Prevention has been the focusing point of the Santa Clarita Valley Station. It is this true partnership in public safety that makes the Santa Clarita Valley such a great community.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

The Santa Clarita Valley has a rich heritage and is home to some of Los Angeles County’s most coveted golf courses. It also boasts exclusive wine lounges, fine dining establishments, impressive shopping centers, live music events and is home to Six Flags Magic Mountain. Deputies assigned to work “SCV Station” stayed very busy keeping the Santa Clarita Valley a great place to live, work, and play.

that had the greatest impact on the community and directly affect our youth. An element of the J-Team includes a unique crime tip reporting and tracking system that ensures continuity, anonymity and thoroughness for those who reported information resulting in action.

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On any given day, during a 24-hour period, as many as 70 patrol vehicles were utilized by the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station and more than 90 deputy sheriffs, including patrol supervisors, were assigned to various field and station assignments.

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Palmdale station reduces crime by Hometown Deputies; reaching out to Those in need Patrol operations • north Patrol Division

Our Partners Against Crime Unit conducted over 170 search operations in 2013, and is on track to exceed that number in 2014. In August of 2013, while conducting a parole compliance check, deputies discovered the names and credit card information of numerous people. This information was hidden behind a hot water heater. The items were taken as evidence and station detective Denise McCormick went to work. Within days, Detective McCormick had found 16 victims of identity theft, many had not even realized they were victims. After several months, over 30 victims had been discovered. The parolee’s girlfriend had been employed as a maid in an exclusive Beverly Hills hotel. She had written down and taken photos of the victim’s driver licenses and credit cards while cleaning the rooms. Ultimately, the parolee and his girlfriend had stolen thousands of dollars worth of goods and services using the victim’s identities and credit information. The suspects pled to 38 felony counts. This is just one example of how separate units in our station work together to solve crime. In December of last year patrol deputies took a report of a storage unit which had been burglarized. The unit contained several firearms. Within weeks, detectives had developed a lead and SEB was contacted to execute the high risk search warrant.

Palmdale station community outreach efforts are unprecedented. From presenting two Community Academies a year in which residents get the opportunity to learn about the Department, to deputies and volunteers raising money for Special Olympics through the Tip-A-Cop campaign. But no outreach effort touched our station and the life of one of our residents more than that of Allan Gonzales. Eighteen-year-old Allan was diagnosed with terminal cancer. He had always dreamt of becoming a Deputy Sheriff. Allan’s brother Emillio reached out to Deputy Jodi Wolfe, who arranged for Allan to be a “Deputy for a Day.” The entire station was so moved by Allan they took up a collection and purchased Sheriff’s items to make Allan’s day even more special. On Monday, January 6, 2014, Allan was presented with an “Honorary Sheriff” certificate, a station pin, challenge coin and station hat. After a station tour, Allan went on a ride-a-long with deputies. Unfortunately, Allan succumbed to his illness just weeks after his visit. Allan had a positive outlook on life and cherished every moment. He was an inspiration to the entire station. The men and women of Palmdale Sheriff’s Station were definitely blessed and honored to have been able to help fulfill Allan’s dream.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

As an example, Palmdale station detectives have continued to maintain an 80 percent closure rate on their cases. They were so exemplary, detective supervisory personnel were selected to audit all of the detective bureaus within the North Patrol Division.

has been instrumental in supporting the station amongst residents in our community. This eight member panel confers with Station Captain Don Ford to help liaison with the community on behalf of our station. Their influence has proven to be instrumental in helping solve local crime and in convincing suspects to voluntarily surrender.

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The Palmdale Sheriff’s Station services over 770 square miles of the Antelope Valley in northern Los Angeles County. The station is unique, in that over 90 percent of the employees also live within the local area; they take a personal interest in station affairs and insuring the community is safe.

The result of the warrant netted six pistols, eleven rifles, a World War II machine gun, thousands of rounds of ammunition, and numerous items of white supremacist paraphernalia. Palmdale station’s Community Advisory Committee

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carson station celebrates 40 years Patrol operations • south Patrol Division

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Carson Station, has provided law enforcement service to the citizens of Carson and unincorporated area of Los Angeles County since 1974. Over the years there have been many leaders who have continuously strived to make a positive impact in the community, reduce crime and earn the public’s trust. It is the mission of the Carson Station to continue our tradition of service and make the City of Carson a safer place to work and live. On Wednesday, August 6th Carson Station celebrated its 40th year anniversary in the secured parking lot of Carson Station. There was a luncheon from the hours of 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for our personnel, past alumni and retirees. Carson City Officials attended as well as members from the Carson Sheriff’s Station Support Foundation. Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department dignitaries also attended the event. The formal ceremony started with Carson Station’s explorers honor guard followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem. Captain Reginald Gautt spoke and was followed by guest speakers Sheriff John Scott, Assistant Sheriff Todd Rodgers, OSS Captain Eddie Rivero, and the first Captain of Carson Station, Michael Logue.

The guests were provided with a complimentary lunch following the formal ceremony. Department show cars were on display along with a representative from the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department EVOC Unit. A representative from the LASD Museum was also in attendance with equipment from years past and pictures of Carson Station’s history. There were pictures and memorabilia placed all over the tented area for our guests to view. Movie posters of the movies “Colors, Reno 911”, and the original “Gone in 60 Seconds” were also on display. All three movies were filmed in the City of Carson and at Carson Sheriff Station. There were approximately 350 guests in attendance during the Carson Station’s anniversary celebration. Retirees from Montana, Arizona, Nevada, Idaho, Texas, Utah and Ohio attended this huge event. During the event an Aero unit flew over Carson Station with photographer Chris Miller, who is retired from the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department and took overhead pictures of the celebration. Group pictures were also taken of past Carson Alumni from between the years of 1970-1980, 1980-1990, and 1990-2000.

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Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department specialized units like SEB, Mounted Horse Patrol, EVOC, Aero Bureau, and Carson OSS were part of the event. Representatives from California Highway Patrol and Los Angeles Fire Department were also in attendance. There were approximately 30 vendors from businesses in the City of Carson passing out their products. Approximately 400 people attended and all those who attended were given complimentary appetizers and drinks.

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Carson Station’s anniversary guests were then invited to our hospitality room at the Carson Community Center (Dominguez room), where complimentary appetizers and cocktails were provided. A representative from Bo’s Cigar Emporium was also in attendance providing freshly rolled cigars to our guests. The cigars had Carson Station’s 40th year anniversary logo on it, compliments of Carson 40th Year planning Committee. Throughout the night event music was enjoyed by the guests and a slide show of over 1,000 photos that were donated by past and present personnel was displayed. Following the anniversary celebration, Carson Station’s Community Relations office in partnership with the Community Advisory Committee hosted its 10th annual Community Night out event in front of Carson Station. The Community Night out started at 6:00 p.m. and ended at 8:00 p.m. Captain Reginald Gautt along with California State Dominguez University Police Chief Carlos Velez, Carson City Officials, residents and the Carson High School band marched through Carson to rally against violence. This event was attended by representatives of the office of Supervisor Mark Thomas-Ridley and Congresswoman Janice Hahn. The speakers were Mayor James Dear, Mayor Pro Tem Elito Santarina, Council Members Mike Gipson, Lula Davis-Holmes, and Albert Robles.

The annual “March and Rally against Violence” ended a busy day for Carson Station and was a great way to build a stronger relationship between the residents of Carson and Carson Sheriff’s Station.

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lomita station Detectives Bust sophisticated identity Theft ring Patrol operations • south Patrol Division

2013/2014 Period of Transition souTH PaTrol Division

While Lomita Station detectives were investigating a car burglary that occurred in Rancho Palos Verdes, they obtained video of two suspects using the burglary victim’s credit card inside a Target Store. Detectives identified the primary suspect from a prior identity theft investigation and immediately responded to his residence in San Pedro. A search warrant was obtained, three suspects were arrested, and Lomita detectives uncovered a sophisticated identity theft criminal enterprise. Detectives discovered that the suspects had been obtaining personal information from others by stealing mail and committing vehicle burglaries all over Southern California. The suspects were using the information to order goods on-line, taking over existing accounts, opening new accounts and adding themselves as authorized users to other accounts. Detectives identified over 120 victims residing in 28 states from Hawaii to New York. Many Southern California victims were from Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties. With this arrest, detectives not only recovered and returned stolen property to its rightful owners, but they put an end to one of the most prolific identity theft rings the South Bay has ever experienced.

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Pico rivera “PriDe” Program Patrol operations • south Patrol Division

The Pico Rivera Individual Development in Ethics program was created in February of 2007. Since that time, 13 classes have graduated and are currently working on a 14th graduating class. The Pride program is a 12-week intervention program that is developed for middle school-aged and high school-aged teens who need guidance in getting their lives back on the right track. Our classes usually average 20 teens per class, which consists of both male and female participants. The Pride program is dedicated to empowering teenagers with the knowledge, self-confidence and moral grounding to help them make good decisions and a positive impact on their community. The goal of the program is to improve the quality of teenagers lives and to arm them with the tools necessary to be successful.

The Pride program is comprised of Sheriff’s Department sworn personnel, Clergy members and civilian volunteers. The program has established a partnership with El Rancho School District, who provide referrals of qualified individuals to the program and assist with tutors for the after school program. The Pride center is located at 9115 Balfour Street, adjacent to Salazar Continuation High School and El Rancho High School. This makes it easily accessible for the teens to attend the after school program at the end of the school day. The Pride center is open Monday through Friday from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. During the first phase of our program, class participants are exposed to harsh realities that happen in life when making bad or poor choices. These field trips include visits to skid row, a mortuary and

Mentors play an important role in the program. Each student is matched with a volunteer mentor who has been selected by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department volunteer process. The mentors’ responsibilities is to interact and establish communication with the teen and their

Parental involvement is a mandatary factor in the program. Parents are required to attend a six-session parenting class on how they can develop their parenting skills and effectively communicate with their children. The Pride program continues to be a great success in making a significant impact on more than 260 at-risk teenagers who have graduated from the program. Since then, Norwalk Sheriff’s Station, Industry Sheriff’s Station along with the cities of Delano and Santa Cruz have implemented similar programs and are seeking to achieve the same level of success. We are in the beginning stages of developing a statistical program that would allow us to follow-up with graduates to ascertain how the class benefitted them in becoming better citizens in society. In the future, we would like to develop an “After Pride” program, where pride graduates come back to the Pride center and give back to the program by becoming mentors at the center.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

The second phase highlights the positive consequences of making good choices. Field trips include a visit to a local college, the police academy, a ropes course, bowling and a right of passage hike and a camping trip. Most importantly, we teach our teens that community service is a great way to give back and demonstrate pride in our community. The teens get involved with Heart of Compassion Food Distribution, where they assist with a food drive for less-fortunate families. For Thanksgiving, the teens assist “Mario’s Tacos” in serving a Thanksgiving meal to the citizens in Pico Rivera. Every Christmas, the teens assist the Sheriff’s Department with the “Annual Christmas Toy Drive” by distributing toys to the less fortunate children.

parents. Each mentor encourages their student to set goals and make good choices in life.

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cemetery, a tour of the county jail, followed with a discussion of life in prison and features guest speakers who educate the teens regarding the dangers of sexual abuse and drug abuse.

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2014 sees the establishment of the Transit Policing Division Transit Policing Division

When Sheriff Scott took office in early 2014, Metro had already requested an audit of the Transit Services Bureau by an independent auditor, the Bratton Group. Once the audit was complete, and the findings sent to the Metro Board of Directors, a key recommendation was that the geographic bureaus policing Metro be brought under one newly formed Division. While reviewing the recommendations, Sheriff Scott went a step further, placing all of the LASD transit policing units under one division, creating the Transit Policing Division. Transit Bureau North and Transit Bureau South, along with Metrolink Bureau, were moved from Homeland Security Division to the newly created Transit Policing Division. Additionally, a Central Operations Unit was created to oversee all of the division’s administrative operations. Sheriff Scott knew the job of selecting a Chief to run the division would be extremely important. The new division boasts a combined staff of over 700 personnel, with

Chief Anda, along with Commander Michael Claus and Captains Jennifer Bateman and Karl Schow were all tasked with bringing the new division on line. Sheriff Scott is committed to securing the new Metro Transit Policing contract, maintaining jurisdiction over the current Metro bus and rail lines, and also providing for expansion and growth. Metro currently has many extension projects that should be completed within the next few years and some projects extending as far as 2025.

2013/2014 Period of Transition

definite growth on the horizon. Ronene “Ro” Anda was the clear choice for such a position. Having been the former Homeland Security Division Commander in charge of transit, she brought transit policing experience with her. Newly promoted Chief Anda knew that her mission was complex. Forming this new division, while working with Metro executives and LASD contract staff to secure a new policing contract is a huge undertaking. However, this is clearly a challenge Chief Anda is equipped to accomplish.

TransiT Policing Division

Sheriff John Scott’s vision for a better Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department was not just relegated to changing the Department’s executive ranks, he also saw the need to restructure many units and bureaus to move the Department in new directions. With this in mind, he turned his attention to the nations’ third largest transit agency, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Transit Services Bureau. Transit Service Bureau has the policing responsibility for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) covering 1433 square miles, while their sister bureau, Metrolink Bureau, is responsible for the commuter trains operated by the Southern California Regional Rail Authority expanding across or operating across seven counties.

Sheriff Scott and Chief Anda have shared their visions for the future, and with the support of the incoming newly elected Sheriff, Transit Policing Division will continue to grow and innovate in the area of transit policing. Specialized units within Transit Policing Division are leaders in the fields of threat interdiction, canine explosives detection, response training and threat detection and criminal intelligence. Transit Policing Division will most certainly continue to lead, develop and change the way law enforcement polices transit. In a very short amount of time, Sheriff Scott has changed LASD’s policing capabilities and his vision will extend far into the future.

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valor awarDs ceremony 2014

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valor awards ceremony 2014

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meritorious conduct medal - gold

meritorious conduct medal - silver

This medal is the second highest award a Department member can receive. It is awarded to persons who place themselves in immediate peril and perform an act of heroism and/or save the life of another person.

This medal is awarded to persons who, when confronted by circumstances beyond the normal course of their duties, place themselves in potential peril while performing an act of heroism or while saving or attempting to save the life of another.

2013/2014 Period of Transition Patrol area valor Boundaries • lasD Patrol stations awarDs ceremony 2014

lifesaving award

Humanitarian award

The Lifesaving Award is presented to employees or reserve members of the Department whose actions result in the saving or preservation of a human life that otherwise would have expired without the employee’s direct involvement.

The Humanitarian Award is awarded to persons who selflessly perform acts of personal commitment and sacrifice to help others. These acts are exceptional, ongoing, and extraordinary, and are considered well above the normal scope of duties.

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Deputy sean r. caples

Deputy Patrick J. ince

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n September 30, 2013, Santa Clarita Valley Station personnel received a call of a residential structure fire. There are numerous two-story condominium structures on Claudette Street with a high number of families living in a compact area. Deputies sean caples and Patrick ince were the first to arrive at the scene. Local residents were in a panic, frantically requesting assistance for someone who was trapped inside a second floor residence. Deputies Caples and Ince ran around the structure to the front, where again they were met with panicked individuals. They saw the right side of the second floor balcony was engulfed in flames. Again, they were told that someone was inside the residence. Without hesitation, they immediately ran to the second story residence where the front door was open and the fire had spread into the living room. They noticed dense, thick smoke which filled the room and extended down to waist level. Because Deputy Caples had previously responded to numerous calls for service to the condominiums on Claudette Street, he was familiar with the floor plans. Both deputies crouched down underneath the smoke and heat and made their way towards the bedrooms. When they looked into one of the bedrooms, they saw a lone female adult. They immediately told her she had to leave, but she refused and stated her sister was still inside. The female was scared and reluctant to move. Deputies knew they had to react quickly due to the spreading fire and unbreathable smoke. The female again refused to leave and deputies took hold of her arms, crouched down, and guided her out of the residence to safety. Deputies Caples and Ince inquired as to the whereabouts of the female’s sister and confirmed that she had made it out to safety on her own. Within thirty seconds of their escape, the second story condominium erupted into flames and explosions of propane tanks shook the complex. Even though Deputies Caples and Ince were suffering from smoke inhalation, they continued with their efforts by coordinating assisting units with evacuations of the other condominium units, traffic control and attending to individuals. Fortunately, no one sustained injuries as a result of this incident. For their great courage and bravery, placing themselves at risk in the immediate life-threatening fire danger to save the life of the female, Deputy Sean Caples and Deputy Patrick Ince are awarded the meritorious conduct medal, gold.

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n January 8, 2013, at approximately 5:44 p.m., Century Station Deputies christopher gomez and laura Perales were patrolling on Long Beach Boulevard. They heard approximately ten gunshots south of their location. They drove towards the gunshots and saw a male running with an assault rifle. The suspect entered a vehicle and fled the location. Believing the suspect had just shot someone, Deputies Gomez and Perales attempted to stop the vehicle. The suspect refused to yield and the deputies initiated a vehicle pursuit while advising area units of their status. Shortly after, a male leaned out of the front passenger window and fired approximate-ly five rounds from an AK-47 assault rifle in the direction of Deputies Gomez and Perales. Despite being shot at, the deputies continued pursuing, providing area units with updated information. A short distance later, the passenger suspect exited the vehicle and fled into the surrounding neighborhood with the assault rifle. The driver of the suspect vehicle fled the scene at a high rate of speed and out-of-view. Deputies Gomez and Perales terminated their pursuit and concentrated on the suspect who had fled into the residential neighborhood with the high power rifle. A containment of the area was initiated and the suspect was soon apprehended. The AK-47 rifle was found in a nearby gutter concealed beneath a parked vehicle. Meanwhile, the suspect driver continued to flee, driving recklessly, ignoring several stop signs, and eventually colliding with another vehicle. The suspect still drove a short distance, but due to front end damage, the vehicle came to a stop. The suspect exited his vehicle and attempted to run. Deputies cut off the suspect’s escape route with their patrol car. The suspect dropped to his knees, put his hands up and was taken into custody.

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Deputy laura Perales

valor awarDs ceremony 2014

Deputy christopher J. gomez

After further investigation, the driver suspect was identified by witnesses as the man who had run up to an SUV and shot the driver, striking that victim multiple times. For displaying bravery and courageous performance during a brazen attack, Deputy Christopher Gomez and Deputy Laura Perales are awarded the meritorious conduct medal, gold.

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Deputy Jesus fernandez Jr.

Deputy Javier flores

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n October 12, 2013, Deputies Jesus fernandez and Javier flores, assigned to Compton Station, responded to a structure fire call, indicating someone was trapped inside. Upon their arrival, they saw a male attempting to use a shovel to break through a wooden exterior wall of a detached garage that was fully engulfed in flames. They learned he was attempting to rescue a female who was trapped inside the burning garage. Deputies quickly evacuated the male to a safe area and then, without regard for their own safety, moved into the heavy smoke coming from the burning garage. Deputy Fernandez used the shovel to pry loose some of the garage’s exterior wooden slats while Deputy Flores used his bare hands to remove the loosened slats, as flames whipped out at them from the engulfed garage. As deputies created a hole large enough to rescue the female, another deputy reached into the burning garage and pulled the incapacitated and badly burned female to safety. The female suffered burns over the majority of her body and was subsequently transported in critical condition. During the rescue, Deputy Flores sustained minor burns to his right hand and was treated for his injury. For their heroic and selfless actions to save the life of a trapped female, who would have perished in the fire without their quick-thinking and bravery, Deputy Jesus Fernandez and Deputy Jaime Flores are awarded the meritorious conduct medal, silver.

The suspect staggered away with Deputy Cueva following him. The suspect fell to the ground and told Deputy Cueva he had been shot in the leg. The suspect then pointed his handgun at Deputy Cueva and fired several more rounds. Deputy Cueva returned fire a second time, again striking the suspect. The suspect was transported to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. A .40 caliber semiautomatic pistol was recovered from the scene along with eight shell casings. For displaying great bravery and decisiveness under the pressure of an aggressive assault, Deputy Carlos Cueva is awarded the meritorious conduct medal, gold.

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n April 9, 2013, Deputy carlos cueva assigned to Century Station was conducting a patrol check due to a recent rise of burglaries in the area. Deputy Cueva became suspicious when he noticed a male dressed in large, bulky clothes on a hot day. The male seemed startled by Deputy Cueva’s presence and immediately began to walk away. Deputy Cueva exited his vehicle and asked the suspect if he could talk with him. The suspect refused to stop, reached into his waistband, and produced a handgun, firing one round towards Deputy Cueva. Deputy Cueva unholstered and returned fire.

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Deputy carlos a. cueva

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2013/2014 Period of Transition valor awarDs ceremony 2014

sergeant clayton D. marion

sergeant steven c. owen

Deputy curtis D. foster

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n November 26, 2013, at approximately 9:21 p.m., Deputies erik Jepson and larry Pico were patrolling in the city of Lancaster when they received information that known gangsters were in the area, possibly carrying handguns and wearing bullet proof vests. The deputies searched for the suspects and located a vehicle matching the description given. After gaining further vehicle information via Sheriff’s communications, the vehicle returned with a missing person hit and deputies initiated a traffic stop. Deputy Pico began walking toward the right side of the vehicle and Deputy Jepson ordered the occupants to show their hands. At that time, Deputy Pico observed that the driver was holding a handgun and yelled a “417” warning to his partner, the Department code for a gun. The driver sped off and a pursuit was initiated. Deputies Jepson and Pico radioed in their situation and requested assistance. The pursuit continued for a couple of miles with the suspect failing to obey several stop signs and traffic lights, at one point narrowly colliding with a bicyclist. sergeant owen joined the pursuit and after a short time, the suspect vehicle came to a stop in a cul-de-sac. The suspect driver immediately exited the vehicle and ran into a nearby apartment complex. The suspect passenger exited the vehicle, laid on the ground and was taken into custody without incident. A containment was established in order to locate the suspect driver. Deputies Jepson and Pico searched the apartment complex and as they approached a nearby street, they observed a vehicle slowly coming to a stop near the driveway. They observed two males in the vehicle and as they approached, Deputy Jepson saw that the driver was frantically pointing at the passenger. Deputy Jepson realized that the passenger was the suspect, drew his duty weapon and ran toward the vehicle. The suspect leaned heavily on the driver, taking the driver hostage and using him as a human shield. At this point, deputies noticed the suspect was wearing a bullet proof vest and was pointing a handgun at the victim’s chest and head area, making it impossible for deputies to end the threat with a clean shot without risk to the victim. Deputies Jepson and Pico repeatedly ordered the suspect to put his gun down, but the suspect continued to ignore the commands.

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Deputy larry J. Pico iv

Sergeant Owen immediately assessed the situation, considered requesting the Depart-ment’s Special Enforcement Bureau, but realized he did not have the time it would take SEB to respond. He considered other force options, keeping in mind that the victim’s safety and the safety of the deputies must be weighed with the risk of successfully ending the situation. He then decided it was best to attempt using a taser on the suspect based on previous experience with this effective tool. Sergeant Owen directed Deputy orantes to step toward the open passenger window and when a moment of opportunity arose, Deputy Orantes deployed his taser, striking the suspect on the right arm, resulting in neuromuscular incapacitation. The victim quickly exited through the driver side door and ran to assisting deputies. Sergeant Owen saw that the suspect was clenching his handgun and feared he still posed a threat. He then directed an assisting unit, sergeant marion, to use the taser a second time from the open driver side window. One of the taser darts penetrated the suspect’s bulletproof vest and made contact with his skin, causing the suspect’s body to remain incapacitated. Deputy foster stepped forward and quickly snatched the handgun out of the suspect’s grip and secured it. Deputies then pulled the suspect out of the vehicle, directed him to the ground and handcuffed him. The kidnapping victim who had been forced to drive later stated that he had pulled over to the street curb line after noticing patrol cars traveling with their lights and sirens. The suspect entered his vehicle through the open passenger window and pointed a handgun at his chest, ordering him to drive or risk being shot. When the victim saw the approaching deputies, he removed the ignition keys from his vehicle and threw them. The deputies tasered the suspect and the victim used this opportunity to escape from the suspect and ran out the driver side door.

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Deputy lewis J. orantes

valor awarDs ceremony 2014

Deputy erik s. Jepson

During the investigation, it was discovered the suspect’s vehicle had been stolen a day earlier. A second firearm was found in this vehicle along with ski masks, confirming the suspects were likely involved in illegal activities. The suspects admitted they were headed out to conduct a home invasion robbery. Throughout this ordeal, the sergeants and deputies’ actions were courageous and nothing short of heroic. For their tremendous bravery and determination to save the victim, placing themselves in immediate life-threatening peril, Sergeant Clayton Marion, Sergeant Steven Owen, Deputy Curtis Foster, Deputy Erik Jepson, Deputy Lewis Orantes and Deputy Larry Pico are awarded the meritorious conduct medal, gold.

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sergeant sean D. Banks

Deputy rafael cardenas

Deputy Jaime fernandez

Deputy carlos g. De la Torre

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n the evening of January 26, 2014, Deputies edward martinez and Jesus rubio, assigned to Century Station, responded to an assault with a deadly weapon call and upon their arrival at the location, found a male victim inside a vehicle bleeding from his mouth and shoulder area. It was discovered that the victim had been shot by his girlfriend’s ex-boyfriend. An argument between the two men had occurred and the suspect shot the victim. Deputies Martinez and Rubio sent out a broadcast advising other units of the shooting and suspect information. Deputies rafael cardenas and Jaime fernandez heard the broadcast informing assisting units that a male had been shot. The broadcast included the suspect’s vehicle description and last known address. Deputies Cardenas and Fernandez responded to the suspect’s residence and observed a vehicle being driven that matched the suspect vehicle description. They attempted to pull the vehicle over, but the driver refused to stop and a vehicle pursuit ensued. Deputies realized the suspect was driving back towards the area of the initial shooting and advised other units. The pursuit ended at the location of the original shooting. sergeant sean Banks and Deputy manuel solis, along with Deputies Rafael Cardenas and Jaime Fernandez, conducted a felony traffic stop. The suspect exited the vehicle holding a handgun and carrying his infant son close to his chest, using the child as a shield. Keeping his handgun pointed in the direction of deputies, the suspect then walked up the driveway, reached a rear door and attempted to open it. The occupants had been notified to lock their doors and not allow the suspect to enter the house. Deputies ordered the suspect to release the child, put down his weapon and surrender. At two different times during these orders, the suspect raised his handgun and shot in the direction of deputies. Deputy ernesto castaneda had followed the suspect as he walked towards the rear of the property. When the suspect fired his weapon in the direction of deputies, Deputy Castaneda took cover behind a metal fence. Deputy Castaneda made his way onto a roof and found a vantage point with a clear view. Deputy Castaneda also heard an aero unit give the suspect several commands to put the gun and child down, which the suspect ignored. During the incident, Sergeant Banks, Deputies Cardenas, Fernandez, and Solis followed the suspect and had the courage to place themselves in harm’s way and the discipline to not return fire knowing there was a child and innocent bystanders in the house behind the suspect. Deputies Bradley Johnsen and christopher zimmerman also followed the suspect and had positioned them-selves on the driveway side. After hearing the first shot, they maintained cover and refrained from shooting, taking into consideration the safety of other deputy personnel and unable to take a clear shot at the suspect. Deputies nikolai vavakin, michael coberg and carlos De la Torre were directed into a position where they monitored the suspect’s movements. The deputies collectively kept the suspect occupied with constant orders and at one point, the suspect placed the child on the ground. A person within the residence seized the opportunity and opened the door to pull the child inside the residence. Without being shielded by the child, the suspect raised his handgun in the direction of deputies. Deputies De La Torre, Coberg and Vavakin fired at the suspect, striking him multiple times and immediately stopping his assault. A team of deputies then advanced on the suspect, taking him into custody without further incident.

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Deputy michael D. coberg

Deputy nikolai vavakin

For their lifesaving efforts, showing leadership and control to not use deadly force during a difficult situation, Deputies Ernesto Castaneda, Bradley Johnsen, Edward Martinez, Jesus Rubio and Christopher Zimmerman are awarded the lifesaving medal.

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Deputy manuel D. solis

Deputy ernesto castaneda

Deputy edward v. martinez

Deputy Bradley T. Johnsen

Deputy Jesus rubio

Patrol area Boundaries • lasD Patrol stations

For placing themselves in potential peril with full knowledge of the risk involved by engaging an armed and dangerous suspect, Sergeant Sean Banks, Deputies Rafael Cardenas, Jaime Fernandez, Carlos De La Torre, Manuel Solis, Michael Coberg and Nikolai Vavakin are awarded the meritorious conduct medal, silver.

Deputy christopher D. zimmerman

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mr. John andre ramirez

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n June 22, 2014, Pico Rivera Station received a service call of a possible assault. As Deputy Evelia Michel neared the location, she contacted a female on a street corner who matched the victim’s description. The female appeared to be under the influence of alcohol and was displaying erratic behavior. Without warning or provocation, the female physically assaulted Deputy Michel and threw her to the ground. The female overpowered the deputy by positioning her body on top of Deputy Michel, putting her in a control headlock and landing a barrage of strikes to Deputy Michel’s head. Upon observing the female’s violent actions, Mr. John Ramirez quickly came to the aid of Deputy Michel and pulled the female off the deputy. The female continued her assault while Mr. Ramirez helped Deputy Michel gain control of the female until assisting deputies arrived.

mr. John andre ramirez

After the incident, a witness stated she saw the female attempt to grab Deputy Michel’s firearm during the struggle. Deputy Michel sustained minor injuries to her hand, knee and lower back. The incident had the potential to turn deadly. Due to Mr. Ramirez’s actions, the female was controlled and taken into custody without further injury to Deputy Michel.

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For displaying great courage, compassion and placing himself in danger while coming to the aid of a deputy sheriff, Mr. John Ramirez is awarded the Department’s Humanitarian medal.

mr. richard alexander frederick iii

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n August 15, 2014, Lakewood Station deputies responded to a possible domestic violence incident at the local mall. It was determined that no crime had occurred and both parties voluntarily left the location. A short time later, Deputy Brandon Love saw the same male suspect walking through the mall. Deputy Love asked the male to leave because he was very loud and emotional, stating he was going to kill himself. Deputy Love was escorting the suspect out of the mall, when he dropped his keys. The suspect, seeing an opportunity, struck Deputy Love from behind. Deputy Love was knocked unconscious and fell to the ground where he laid with no sign of life. The suspect kicked the deputy in the head and stomped his neck in an apparent attempt to kill him. At this point, Mr. Richard Frederick ran towards the deputy as the male was about to strike Deputy Love again and knocked the suspect away from Deputy Love. Another responding deputy ran inside the mall with his gun drawn and ordered the suspect to surrender. The suspect complied and was handcuffed without incident.

mr. richard alexander frederick iii

Mr. Frederick undoubtedly saved Deputy Love’s life. Since the incident, Deputy Love has described Mr. Frederick as his “guardian angel.” For his willingness to become involved in a vicious attack of a deputy sheriff, without regard for his own safety and for his courageous actions, Mr. Richard Frederick is awarded the Department’s Humanitarian medal.

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Dr. gale D. smith

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Dr. gale D. smith

Dr. Smith believed the officer’s life was in danger. She immediately stopped her vehicle, got out and ran to help the deputy who was viciously being attacked. She told the suspect, “Son, you really don’t want to do this.” The suspect glanced at her and continued his violent attack on the deputy. Ms. Smith saw the suspect’s hand on the deputy’s weapon and immediately grabbed the suspect from behind and put her arm around the suspect’s neck, placing him in a head lock. She took control of the suspect’s hand so he wouldn’t take the deputy’s gun. Dr. Smith and Deputy Boissier struggled to subdue the suspect at which time two men ran up to help and assisting units arrived on scene. Prior to attacking Deputy Boissier, the suspect had gone on a rampage that included the assault of a pastor, theft of the pastor’s cell phone, and had tried to carjack two different vehicles. Dr. Smith was the first person to come to the aid of a female deputy who was being attacked on the side of the road. Dr. Smith said her faith gave her strength and that God had put angels around her. It is without a doubt that Dr. Smith was Deputy Boissier’s angel on that January afternoon. Dr. Smith’s willingness to become involved in this dangerous situation by physically engaging the suspect most likely saved the deputy’s life. For her heroic actions, Dr. Gale Smith, a 66 year old grandmother, former correctional officer and Air Force veteran, is awarded the Department’s Humanitarian medal.

valor awarDs ceremony 2014

At the same time, Dr. Gale Smith was driving by when she noticed a male sprinting, but not wearing appropriate jogging clothing. She saw a patrol car with its lights on and stop behind the male. She slowed as a precaution and observed a female deputy exit the patrol car and contact the male. In disbelief, she saw the male turn and begin to attack the female deputy.

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n January 31, 2012, Deputy Kimberly Boissier of Lancaster Station, was responding to investigate an attempt carjacking. Deputy Boissier saw the alleged suspect, stopped her vehicle and exited her patrol car. As she approached the male, he turned and lunged at her. The suspect tried to push her into oncoming traffic, continued to attack her and attempted to take her gun.

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who we are... an overview of the los angeles county sheriff’s Department (lasD)

wHo we are...

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about the lasD The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is the largest sheriff’s department* and second largest policing agency in the United States. It is the largest contract policing agency and the second largest transit police force in the country. The LASD manages the nation’s biggest county jail system (about 18,000 inmates) and the largest court security operation (600 bench officers and 42 Superior Courts).

in the u.s.a. size

Sheriff’s Department Contract Policing Agency Community College Policing Jail System Court Security Operation

1st 1st 1st 1st 1st

counts

Personnel Positions counts Sworn Personnel 10,278 Civilian Personnel 8,875 Civilian Volunteers 4,300 ** Reserve Sheriff’s Deputies 830 ** Youth Explorers 420 **

* Los Angeles County has nearly 10 million residents and includes 88 cities plus unincorporated communities. ** More than p90

Protected Population Protected Residents 2,938,613 Patrol Square Miles 3,159 Incorporated Contract Cities 42 Cities Square Miles 531 Unincorporated Communities 130 Unincorporated Square Miles 2,628

lasD PaTrol oPeraTions

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lasD Patrol operations

central Patrol Division 18 21 28 02 27 03

avalon sheriff’s station century sheriff’s station compton sheriff’s station east los angeles sheriff’s station marina del rey sheriff’s station south los angeles sheriff’s station

east Patrol Division 07 12 14 08 05 29

north Patrol Division 11 22 26 06 09

lancaster sheriff’s station malibu/lost Hills sheriff’s station Palmdale sheriff’s station santa clarita valley sheriff’s station west Hollywood sheriff’s station

altadena sheriff’s station crescenta valley sheriff’s station industry sheriff’s station san Dimas sheriff’s station Temple sheriff’s station walnut/Diamond Bar sheriff’s station

south Patrol Division 16 23 13 17 04 15

carson sheriff’s station cerritos sheriff’s station lakewood sheriff’s station lomita sheriff’s station norwalk sheriff’s station Pico rivera sheriff’s station

© 2014 Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. All Rights Reserved. p91

®

Welcome Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department

welcome to our new sheriff Biography Sheriff Jim McDonnell was sworn in as the 32nd Sheriff of Los Angeles County on December 1, 2014. Sheriff McDonell is a Boston native who grew up in a working class neighborhood a stone’s throw from Fenway Park. He came to Los Angeles over three decades ago with little more than a dream to be part of protecting and serving the public. He was born to immigrant parents who instilled in him the values that have served as the guideposts throughout his life: hard work, integrity and treating all people with respect. He began his law enforcement career in 1981 as a twenty-two-year-old graduate from the Los Angeles Police Academy. Sheriff McDonnell served for 29 years at the Los Angeles Police Department, holding every rank from Police Officer to second-in-command. While at the LAPD, he earned that Department’s highest honor for bravery, the Medal of Valor, and helped create the blueprint for LAPD’s community-based policing efforts that have now become a model for law enforcement agencies throughout the nation. For five years, Sheriff McDonnell served as the Chief of the Long Beach Police Department. In that role, he implemented numerous improvements that resulted in safer communities, increased morale, and enhanced community relations. From his first day on the job at LASD, Sheriff McDonnell has stressed the importance of treating all members of our community with respect, being transparent with and accountable to the individuals that the LASD serves, and creating an environment that recognizes and rewards character, competence and compassion. He is committed to ensuring that safe neighborhoods enable all residents and businesses in L.A.’s diverse County to thrive. He is also a believer in prevention-oriented strategies and proactively addressing the root causes of crime -- including mental illness, homelessness and the challenges facing youth at risk. Sheriff McDonnell brings to the LASD decades of experience and strong relationships with law enforcement and government leaders. He is a proven and respected voice in local, state, and national criminal justice organizations, having served as President of the Los Angeles County Police Chiefs' Association, President of the California Peace Officers' Association, a member of the California Commission on Peace Officers' Standards & Training (POST), and a board member of the Peace Officers' Association of Los Angeles County. While Sheriff McDonnell never served inside the LASD, he served alongside it his entire career and has admired its proud traditions throughout his decades of work in Los Angeles. From 2011 to 2012, he served as a member of the Citizens’ Commission on Jail Violence -- a blue ribbon group created by the Board of Supervisors. The Commission issued a detailed report, including 63 recommendations that have become a roadmap for change within the Department. Sheriff McDonnell is also a believer in the importance of education, both in the classroom and on the job. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from St. Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Southern California. He is also a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Executive Institute and has completed executive education programs at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. He and his wife Kathy live in Long Beach. He has two daughters -- Kelly who is in law school and Megan pursing a graduate degree in film school.

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~ A Tradition Of Service ~ Since 1850 ~

Copyright 2014 Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. All Rights Reserved.

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